Few things in life are as rewarding as having a pet. The unconditional love that they bring to your home, the fun memories and unforgettable experiences will change your life for the better. A pet is about the best addition you can make to any family, but there are a lot of them that don’t have homes. Approximately 6.5 million animals enter shelters each year according to the ASPCA and only about 50% are adopted by a family. Around the holidays, many people adopt a pet as a holiday gift for someone they love. Today we are discussing what you can do to have a successful pet adoption.
Are You Ready?
The first and most important thing to ask yourself is if you are ready to have a pet. Taking in a life, whether it be small or large, is a huge commitment when it comes to work, money, and effort. Your furry friend will be in your life for years to come, so you want to make sure that you are ready and available to meet their needs and keep them healthy and happy. If you are ready, then the addition of a pet to your family will be something that will bring you joy and adventure for days to come.
The Pet Adoption Process
Once you’ve decided that you’re ready, you’ll want to start looking into the perfect pet for you. There are several factors to consider when deciding on the type of pet that will be right for your home:
- Activity Level – Some pets will need more exercise than others. You’ll want to find one that matches your energy levels and that you can keep up with.
- Household Type – The space in your home will be another factor to consider. Whether it be a studio apartment or a family home you’ll want your pet to be comfortable with the space available.
- Family Dynamic – Do you have kids, roommates, or other pets? You’ll want to make sure that everyone is able to get along.
- Time Availability – How much time do you have available? Some pets need more care and attention while others are very independent.
After deciding which type of pet is right for you, you’ll begin your search for your new friend. Online there are several websites that can help you connect with pets of all kinds, the Arizona Humane Society for example has a long list of adoptable dogs, cats, and critters. Each shelter or rescue group will have their own requirements in order to approve you for adoption.
Get Your Space Ready
Now that you’ve been approved to bring home your new furry friend you’ll want to make sure that your space is ready for them. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, there are some standard things that you’ll want to have before you bring them home. With any pet some of the basic items you’ll need will include; food and water bowls, the food you plan on feeding them, a bed or blankets for them to sleep on, and maybe a toy or two to help keep them entertained. Once you have those items you can also consider things that your specific pet may need depending on the type of animal that they are, their age, or personal items that you may want to provide for them. For dogs, you may want to consider a kennel or crate to keep them in while you are away or a fence to limit the areas they have access to. Cats will need a litter box and maybe a cat tower to give some space to exercise.
Aside from the items your new pet will need in order to be happy and healthy, you’ll want to make sure that your space is safe for your friend. Certain plants and items can be poisonous to animals that might be ok for people. If you have any plants that may be toxic to dogs or cats, you’ll want to remove them from the places your pets will be. Something else you’ll want to think about will be what they might be able to reach or get into. If your counters are low or you have trash cans without lids, these are places that your pets may get ahold of something that they shouldn’t.
Once you’ve found your perfect pet and have brought them home you’re ready to start your life with them! Whether old or young you’ll want to make sure that your furry friend is in good health and will stay that way. We’re here to help with that. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
