Things To Think About Before Adopting

We know falling in love with a new pet is easy, but are you really ready for a pet (or more than one)?

By adopting a dog or cat, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for the rest of their life so think before you bring one home. Dogs and cats are very rewarding, but only if you’re willing and able to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love for the rest of the animal’s life.

Below are some things to think about when exploring the possibility of adopting a new pet.

  1. Take time to think about what type of animal you'd like to adopt. Do you want a dog or a cat? What size animal are you interested in adopting? What breed(s) do you like? Do you want an active or a calm pet? 

  2. Also consider the following factors: Do you have kids? Do you have other animals in the house? Do your animals get along with other animals?

  3. Animals cannot be ignored because you’re tired or busy. They require food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day. Many animals are homeless simply because their owners didn’t realize how much time it took to care for them. So do you have time for a pet or additional pets?

  4. The costs of pet ownership can be quite high. Veterinary care, grooming, toys, food, litter, and other expenses add up quickly. Do you have the financial capability to take on a pet?

  5. Scratched-up furniture, chewed on shoes, accidents from animals who aren’t fully potty trained yet, and unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership. Are you ready to make a commitment to an animal that will take some training and money?

  6. Animals cannot go every where with you. Do you have someone reliable to care for your animals when you are not able to?

  7. Look at your living arrangements. Does it make sense to adopt an animal right now? Does the size, age, energy level, etc. fit into your lifestyle?

  8. Of course, you have good intentions but if you have young children, or busy children, or you travel a lot, or you may be moving soon, or you’re a student … really take some time to look at your life and know a dog or cat will change it. Is it the right time to adopt?

ADOPTION PROCESS

Check out our Adoption Process page for more information on the process to adoption, adoption fees, what vetting in included with the adoption fee, and the link to our adoption application.

ADOPTABLE ANIMALS

Our Adoptable Animals page has all of our dogs and cats along with puppies and kittens available for adoption. If you find one you’d like to meet, reach out to us and we will set up a meet and greet.