Tips for Adopting Dogs
Adopting a dog is a great way to make a difference. The United States has more than 6 million homeless animals each year. While it is vital to provide homeless pets with loving homes, adopting a dog requires that you take extra care in choosing the right person. A dog that isn’t right for the owner or vice versa could become homeless again. These are the things you should consider before adopting a pet dog.
#1: Determine if you are ready to adopt a dog
Before you can do anything, decide if your family is ready for a new dog.
Think about your finances
You must be able afford to feed your pup and provide regular veterinary care. Although a yearly check won’t be too expensive, you should still have the ability to afford monthly heartworm pills, flea-and–tick treatments, and emergency medical care.
Make a Schedule
Dog parents should have enough time to spend with their pet. Working professionals can still have dogs. However, they need to enlist the help and support of their family members, doggy daycare, and dog walkers for those times when they are unable to be there.
Be open to other family members
It is important to consider whether everyone in your household is willing to adopt a dog. All members of the family, including children and spouses, should be comfortable welcoming and caring after a new dog. Young children are also important. It is important that they learn how to interact and play with dogs.
#2: Find the Right Pet for You
Start Searching Online
It’s easy to search online for descriptions and photos of dogs from local shelters. It’s a great place for starting your search. These profiles are only a small part of the information you can gather. Do not make a decision on adopting a dog until you have met him in person.
Please fill out an application
Many shelters and rescues require prospective adopters to complete an application before they are allowed to meet any dogs. It can take up a week to complete this application. The rescue will need to review your references and conduct an inspection of your home. Do not stress about the home visit. The volunteer is not going to test your housekeeping skills but will be making sure your home is suitable for your pet. If you are living in an apartment or condo you will also need to provide proof that your dog is allowed.
Be aware of your options
Shelter and rescue volunteers are also able to help you choose the right dogs for your family. They have the benefit of being able to bring dogs and owners together as well as knowing their individual personalities. One example is that some dogs thrive when they are the only pet in the household, while others do better around other dogs.
#3: Meet Your New Dog
Dogs don’t always make the best impressions. However, they can make wonderful pets for the right people. Let them be themselves, take your time, and then think carefully about your perfect match.
Make Key Observations
Shelter workers may let you take the dog out for a walk, or even play time, if everything goes well. Make the most of this opportunity. Take note of how the dog interacts and communicates with your family. Does he seem happy to be around you? Are there any commands he knows? How does he get along with other dogs and people? There is no one right answer. It’s just the right or wrong answers for your dog.
#4: What you need to know when bringing home a new dog
You will need to make plans to bring home your new dog once you have found the right dog.
Puppy-proofing
Dog-proof your home. This includes removing any dangerous objects that your dog or puppy might reach and putting away anything he could chew.
All Supplies
A trip to the pet supply stores is also necessary. The Products you will need immediately include:
- Liner and crate
- Food and treats
- Set of dog bowls
- Leash, collar, or harness
- A few toys
Training Plan
You might also consider enrolling in a dog obedience course. This will help you to teach your dog basic commands as well as provide regular socialization. You can even train older dogs. Plus, you get to meet other dog lovers and form a close bond with your new buddy.