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Before you decide to adopt an animal, make sure you and your family are ready
for this new responsibility. Consider the following questions:
- Why do I want a pet? Adopting a pet takes time, energy and
resources. Pets can be with you for 10, 15 or even 20 years. Am I ready for this
commitment?
- Can I afford to have a pet? Do I have money saved
for medical emergencies? Do I have money to purchase the items a new pet will
need? Food, toys,
 veterinary care and grooming can cost between $50 and $200 a
month depending on the kind of pet you adopt.
- How much time do I have to dedicate to a pet,
including regular exercise, grooming, socializing, and feeding?
- Will a pet work with my schedule? How many hours a
week do I work? How many hours do I spend socializing or on other non-work
related activities? Dogs, especially puppies, should not be left alone or crated
for more than 8 hours at a time.
- What kind of animal or breed will fit my lifestyle?
Am I active or inactive? Do I live in a house with a yard or a condominium?
- Am I ready to handle pet ‘messes’ and other potential
behavior issues (chewing, counter ‘surfing’, barking)? Do I have the time
to properly train my pet?
- If there are children in the home, what kind of
breed is best with children? Does this pet have a proven track record with
children?
- Does anyone in my home have pet allergies?
- If I am a renter, does my lease allow pets and are
there size limitations?
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