ADOPTION TIPS

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN ADOPTING A PET

 

Most Importantly:  Use your head as well as your heart when adopting.

 ** When adopting a dog or cat consider, size, breed, and temperament.  A successful adoption must be a good fit for your family and lifestyle.

CAT vs. DOG 

    ** If you think you want a dog but are gone many hours a day, perhaps you should consider adopting a cat. Cats won't have to be let outside during the day as a dog would.  You might consider getting two cats or kittens to keep each other company. 

    ** You will never own a cat!  It will own you and give you back affection on its own terms. 

    ** If you want undying loyalty and constant availability, adopt a dog.

    ** What sort of dog would fit your lifestyle?  Remember you will have to live with the dog for ten or more years.  If you like being a couch potato, then you should choose a laid back dog.  If you want a dog that will be able to go jogging and hiking with you, select an active dog.  Try to learn about breeds of dogs and their unique qualities before you choose one.

    ** Animals at the shelter are stressed.  When evaluating an animal's personality, get them off in a quiet place to see how they act.

    ** A lot of dogs at the shelter have no training.  Their previous owners didn't take the time to work with them that's most likely why they're here.  They will undoubtedly improve in your home with time and attention, and lots of TLC.

    ** Small dogs are not good for small children because they can't take the rough-and-tumble play that children like so well.

    ** Puppies require a lot of time and attention.  If you don't have much time to work with a puppy, get an older dog.  Older dogs have a lower energy level. Many adult dogs come into the shelter already housebroken and completely or partially obedience trained.

    ** Consider crate training an adult or puppy coming into your home. Ask an expert how important this is.

  TEMPERAMENT:

      ** When adopting a cat, look for a cat that is approachable and  comes to the front of the cage to be petted, not one cowering behind the litter box.  A very docile cat can be cradled and held gently on its back.  If children share your home, a shy cat may not be a good choice.

    ** When adopting a dog, a shy dog would be good for an elderly person, but not usually as a family dog.  Shy dogs don't like a lot of commotion.  Their shyness may improve after leaving the shelter, but there are no guarantees.

    ** If you adopt a cat that has been declawed, that leaves the cat defenseless if it should meet an unfriendly animal.  A declawed cat should never be allowed outside.

    ** Contrary to what people think, there is NOT a high risk of disease getting a dog from a shelter.  They may have kennel cough, but a dog can get that walking down the street, and it is not life-threatening whatsoever.

 

~~~THANK YOU for considering adopting a shelter pet.  Enjoy your new fuzzy friend !!~~~