For many, animal adoptions continue to be a favorite way to acquire a new best friend. Every year, hundreds and thousands of wonderful new pets are discovered and taken home to adoring families. Pet store dogs are expensive while animal adoptions offer the same lovable dogs for free. If you are among the many people today interested in adopting a dog, there are several things to evaluate before bringing one home.
Are You Ready?
Dogs are a big responsibility. Whether it’s a puppy or a full grown adult, a new dog requires love, training and patience, along with the necessities of food, water and regular walks. It’s important to evaluate and prepare for every aspect of pet care prior to rushing into any animal adoptions and a new dog is no different. Caring for a dog can sometimes be a full-time job, so communication among other members of your family may help to delegate tasks such as feeding, watering and walking the dog throughout the week.
Selecting Your Dog
Different breeds have different temperaments, habits, shapes, sizes and ages. Don’t hesitate to ask a professional for help when selecting the right dog to take home to the family. Some breeds are engineered to protect a home while others are simply fun to have around. Every dog breed possesses distinctly different attributes, but all of them can make life-long companions. Choosing to have an ‘inside’ dog or an ‘outside’ dog is another thing to consider, especially in the case that existing pets like cats are in the home already.
Consistent Care
Ongoing follow-ups should be a priority after animal adoptions. Dogs require regular shots and can benefit from bi-monthly veterinary checkups and grooming. Be sure to ask about your dog’s health history and what may be required. Knowing when your dog is due for the next round of shots is important. Scheduling appointments to have your dog bathed or to clip his or her nails may also be a good idea before introducing the dog to the family or other pets.
Caring for a dog is challenging but also very rewarding. A dog can enrich a household for generations and many of these adorable creatures find homes through animal adoptions. By understanding and accepting the responsibilities of being a dog owner, you can feel confident to research pet adoptions in your area and select a dog that is right for you.