A shelter pet can be an excellent choice when adopting a pet, helping to lessen the burden in shelters while providing you with companionship, too! There are plenty of reasons to adopt a pet. Increased physical activity, improved heart health and lowered blood pressure are just a few of the health benefits for dog owners. Children who grow up with pets may have a reduced risk of developing asthma and allergies. And having a pet can improve your mood and help you to relax after a tough day.
But how to adopt a shelter pet involves more than providing food in their dish, water in their bowl and a roof over their head. In this article, we’ll provide tips on what to consider before making the commitment.
Discuss the adoption with all members of your family or your roommates first.
Many cats can live for up to 20 years, and dogs around 10-13 years. Be ready to care for your new pet for the long haul. Food, supplies, grooming, training and veterinary care—including spaying or neutering and unexpected medical visits add up over time.
Avoid being impulsive and adopting the first pet you see. Shelter pets come in all shapes, sizes, colors and personalities, so you’re sure to find the pet you’re most compatible with. Make sure to choose a pet that will complement your lifestyle. The shelter or rescue staff will know the habits and quirks of the pets, and can help guide you on which would be best for your family and lifestyle.
If you’re thinking about how to adopt a dog from a shelter, take time to understand what kind of dog fits your day-to-day routine. Are you active and outdoorsy, or do you prefer quiet evenings at home? Some dogs require lots of exercise and stimulation, while others are more laid-back.
Puppies and kittens are cute but can be a lot more work than an adult dog or cat. Puppies need obedience and house training, and tend to be more destructive than older dogs that were likely trained. Puppy-proofing your home is a must!
If this is your first time adopting, knowing how to adopt a dog for the first time can help set you up for success. Take your time with the decision. Ask questions. Get to know the dog before committing.
Make sure you have the supplies ready before you come home with your new family member! You’ll need food and water dishes, a collar, ID tag, leash, food, treats, bed, crate, grooming supplies and, of course, a few toys!
If you're looking into how to adopt a cat from a shelter, keep in mind that cats need their own set of essentials: at least two litter boxes, high-quality food, clean water, scratching posts and cozy places to hide and sleep.
Kittens are adorable and full of energy! They love to scale furniture and curtains, dart around the house and sometimes keep you up at night. Adult cats tend to be much calmer and less likely to rip around your home, wreaking havoc on your home décor!
Like with dogs, take the time to find a cat whose personality matches yours. Shelter staff can tell you who’s more playful, who’s more reserved, and who might get along well with your other pets.
If you already have pets at home, think about how they’ll react to a new addition. Ask the shelter staff about the animal’s past experiences with other pets, if known. Many shelters offer advice or introductions to help ease the transition.
You’ll want your veterinarian to check over your new pet before bringing them home, or if that’s not possible, fairly soon after. You want to make sure your new companion is healthy, fully vaccinated and isn’t bringing any of their own “friends” (fleas, ticks, mites or intestinal parasites) into your home.
Adjusting to a new home takes time. It may take some time for your newly adopted pet to feel comfortable in their new home. It may help to keep your new pet in one room with their food, water, bed, crate and toys (and litterbox for your new feline companion) until they’re used to their new home. Introduce them slowly to other rooms and family members so they can build confidence and feel secure.
Not sure where to start? Here are some resources for pet adoption. >>
