Choosing Your Next Pet

We all have had moments of longing or hope for finding the pet of our dreams. But this choice is not about luck or good fortune. There is a way to find and adopt a pet of your dreams, but it requires a little of legwork on your part.

Fist make a simple list of what your are looking for in a pet. Are you looking for companionship, a running buddy, protection, cuddle partner, etc? Creating this list and really examining your needs and wants will help you select the correct animal (cat vs. dog) and the right breed.

Next create a list of what you can afford in terms of food and care for your pet. Make sure that it fits into your budget, so the pet will not end up back in the pound. This is very traumatic to animals. Like a child, they need stability, shelter, and love. Also think about how much time and energy you can spend on your new pet. Obviously, kittens, puppies, and dogs in general need more attention and training. Think hard and honestly about these choices before picking a pet.

After you complete the list, go shopping. Well not literally. These days there are so many animals that people have given away for adoption. Do your “shopping” at a local pound or humane society. Not only is this choice the most kind, but also it is the most economical and safe. At the humane society, the cost of spaying or neutering is included as well as many of the shots. They also provide free evaluation of the dog or cat’s behavior and issues. This is a valuable service and will help you a great deal when choosing the right animal for your lifestyle. The adoption fees range from $50-$150 but is well worth the benefits of helping homeless animals.

I would go to the adoption center at least two times before adopting. Go through all the animals and see if there chemistry between any of them and you. Ask to meet one or two of your favorite choices. The usually provide meeting rooms where you can see how the animals interacts with you. This is also the time to ask questions to the people who work there. Ask them about care and feeding and the personality of the animal that you are meeting with. If you have children, you will want them to meet the possible pet. Sometimes because of the animal’s history, they might react negatively to smaller children. If you have other pets, you can ask the attendant to bring another dog or cat in (from the adoption center) just to see how they might interact.

If you feel a good connection with an animal, put it on hold. I know you are dying to just take it home but it is good to see how its personality compares the next day. It also gives you a day to truly mull it over and think about your choices.

If all is good, go ahead and set up for your pet before you pick them up and finish the adoption process. You can call ahead or ask questions at the first interview. Buy beds, toys, and food. Then go back and bring your new pet home. The first days are hard for some pets to adjust, so try and set up some extra time to be with them. Remember toys and treats are always a great welcome home gift.

Have fun and revel in the joys of your new pet.