Be sure you understand what you are getting into!
Choosing to add a pet to your household takes careful research and planning. A pet requires more than just adequate food, water and shelter. This is an important decision, so take your time before deciding to bring a cat, dog or any small animal into your home.
Having a pet is a long term commitment.
Your pet will be with you for many years, so you must think carefully and seriously before choosing to become a pet owner. Pets bond deeply with their humans and will quickly become a member of your family. Adopting means making a life-long commitment which may last 10-15 years for a dog and perhaps 15-20 years for a cat.
Caring for this animal must remain a priority even when your life changes. Consider your pet(s) when you redecorate your home, take a new job, move to a different city or decide on changing your family status.
Pets depend on you to look after their health and safety. Proper veterinary care, healthy food and fresh water, toys and other items are needed for their comfort and welfare.
Are you ready for a dog?
When considering adding a pet – especially a dog – to your home, there are some commitments and sacrifices you need to be willing to make, including but not limited to:
- Taking your dog for a walk at least twice a day for 30 minutes.
- Going for walks even when it is raining.
- Going for walks even when you really don’t feel like it.
- Cleaning up after your new pet in your home.
- Engaging in stimulating activities with your dog – giving attention, throwing balls, belly rubs, walks, etc.
- Coordinating pet care when you travel.
- Taking financial responsibility for regular vet checks, emergency vet visits, preventatives, food, beds, bowls, leashes and other supplies.
- Making a 10-12 year commitment depending on breed and age of dog at adoption.
- Making a commitment to training and meeting your dogs behavior needs.
Special Considerations for Shelter Dogs
Shelter dogs are special creatures – they may have come from a very difficult situation and need lots of love and patience.
- Most come in as strays, so we do not know anything about their background. In addition, they may:
- Have never walked on or seen a leash.
- Have never spent time in a crate.
- Have never had a regular meal.
- Have never had to potty outside or learn where to potty.
- Have never had a dog bed or the safety of a home.
- Have never had consistent human interaction.
- For many, they are learning or relearning everything
- They need consistency, routine, training, grace and lots of love.
There is no crate-trained, potty-trained, walk on leash-trained, house-trained shelter dog. You will have to invest time and energy toward creating positive routines and consistent expectations.