In 2008, AdoptaPet.com queried over 180 animal shelters and rescues throughout the United States to find out the 10 most important things people should know before adopting a new pet. Below are the results of the survey.
Before you proceed to our online application, please review and consider these ten crucial tips before you make a decision to adopt. You can also view a video listing and discussing the tips here.
Please remember that one of the reasons we have such a large need for shelters and rescues is because individuals fail to consider some of these points before adopting or purchasing a new pet. By doing your research, making the necessary preparations, and carefully considering the implications of adoption, you are helping to lower the number of pets that are recycled every year, and promoting responsible pet-ownership. Thank-you!
|
|
1.
|
When you adopt, you need to make a real commitment to care for your pet for its entire life, no matter what that entails, just as you would with a child.
|
|
2.
|
Be prepared for a pet to affect other parts of your life for as long as you have the pet (can be up to 15 years for a dog and 20 years for cat). Your pet’s well-being will have to be considered in all kinds of decisions, including travel, social life, relocating to a new home, adopting other pets, having children, etc.
|
|
3.
|
Verify in advance that you’re allowed to keep a pet where you live, especially if you rent or belong to a homeowners’ association.
|
|
4.
|
Make any necessary modifications to your yard and fence, if you have one, to provide for your pet’s safety and to prevent your pet from escaping.
|
|
5.
|
Never give a pet as a gift.
|
|
|
6.
|
Choose a pet appropriate to your living situation and lifestyle. Figure out what size, age, and energy-level pet is most appropriate for you.
|
|
7.
|
Never adopt a pet on a whim or because you feel it’s love-at-first-sight. Do your research and carefully consider all the aspects and implications of adopting before you make a decision.
|
|
8.
|
If you’re adopting a pet for your kids, understand that the responsibility is yours. Kids, by their nature, often tire of things that were once new and exciting, and this includes their pets. You will most likely end up being the one who provides most of the pet’s care.
|
|
9.
|
Plan for a several-week adjustment period during which there will be challenges.
|
|
10.
|
Provide sufficient exercise and stimulation. (Walk dogs according to individual need, provide playtime and appropriate toys for both dogs and cats, spend time just petting and talking to your pet, include pet in family activities.)
|
|
If you've reviewed and understand the ten points listed above, and are ready to fill out an adoption application...
|
