Adopt Don’t Shop With These Tips in Mind

August 30, 2016

So you’ve decided to find your next furry companion at your local animal rescue. That’s AWESOME! Millions of animals get euthanized every year, simply because their are not enough homes available…you are going to change the life of a deserving pet. However, there are some tips and hints to keep in mind when looking to rescue a shelter pet. These can make the difference between a successful adoption and one that doesn’t go so smoothly.

Choosing the Right Pet

There are a variety of animals that are turned over to shelters. These can range from dogs and cats, to small rodents and even birds and lizards. Before you embark on pet parenting, be sure you know exactly what type of pet you want. For example a home with small children may not necessarily do well with a rodent that doesn’t like to be handled or a small dog that can be easily injured. Do your research on the type of animal you want so you can go into the shelter armed with all the facts you need to make an informed decision.

After you have decided on the species of pet, you will need to look at the breed. For example that cute little Border Collie pup may be pleading with you, but if you live in an apartment or are not an active person, this energetic and busy breed will not make a good pet for you and your family.

Age Does Make a Difference

Sure puppies are adorable, but you have to ask yourself…is this the right age for me and my family? Puppies require a lot of attention and training. If you work fulltime, then a puppy will not get the necessary outings it needs throughout the day which can lead to accidents in the house and in some cases separation anxiety for the pup. In addition, puppies go through many different stages, so you will have to be prepared for additional training, social interaction with other dogs and people, as well as being prepared for the growth of your dog…small pups can turn into large dogs very quickly.

If you feel you aren’t fully prepared for these doggy demands, then you may want to rescue an older dog. Lots of times these pooches are already trained, vaccinated and spayed or neutered, so you will know exactly what you are getting, at least size-wise.

Personality Should Be a High Priority

We humans are visual creatures, so we may be tempted to go on the animal’s appearance only. This is a huge mistake. What does it matter if that adorable mutt is a beauty to behold, but is tearing up your home because it isn’t getting enough daily exercise? Before you jump into the looks-boat, take one of those pooches out for a walk to get to really know what he or she is like; you may just save yourself a lot of heartache down the road. In addition, ask the shelter what their policy is for home visits. Taking an animal out of the stressful shelter environment is an excellent way to really gauge what that pooches personality is all about.

Don’t Get Caught Up in Those Myths

There are many myths that surround, not only shelters, but the animals themselves. For example “black cats are bad luck.” This is simply ridiculous and stems from back in the olden days when black cats were associated with witchcraft. Unfortunately, many people still buy into this mythological nonsense, which leaves many wonderful black felines being passed over, homeless and oftentimes euthanized.  If you are looking for a feline friend to adopt, give a black cat a chance to prove he or she is just as worthy as that fluffy white one.

Another myth is has been perpetuated is that shelter animas are somehow defective and always have behavioral issues. This is simply not so. Many animals end up in the shelter system by no fault of their own. Sometimes people die and there is no one else to care for them. People abandon animals in buildings and on the side of the road or in a parking lot due to their poor decision making qualities. Other times, if there is a behavioral issue it’s due to the animal having been mistreated (which can lead to trust issues). However, with love and patience these animals can usually be turned around quite quickly and will make an awesome, loyal and loving companion. Before you buy into this silly notion, go spend some time with a shelter animal you have interest in…it at least deserves a chance, not a snap decision based on myth and rumor.

Give a Shelter Pet a Chance

If you are serious about adding a pet to your home, follow these helpful tips and hints to make your adoption experience a pleasant and successful one.  After all, doesn’t every pet deserve a second chance at a great life? Be the hero and support your local rescue groups by looking there first for your next best furry friend.