pet adoption tips {before adopting}

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We have adopted 3 pets from shelters and similar organizations. We have been lucky in finding animals that fit within our family. But we did some research and checking to find animals that worked for our dynamics. Check out my pet adoption tips to findtips a pet from a shelter/adoption agency that is right for you.

pet adoption tips

Looks – Write down what you are looking for. This will help you keep focused on what you want as you begin your search. Even if you don’t write it down, remember. Those cats and dogs can be so cute you lose focus on your goal of what you want.

Time – How much time can you spend with the pets. Can you walk the dog. Do they need space to run and play, and do you have that? Can you spend time petting and cuddling the pet.

Money – Can you afford their care and food. If you are having trouble coming up with the money to buy the pet or the things you need (food, liter etc), this may not be the pet you need as you may continue to struggle.

Age – Do you want a puppy or a dog. Kitten or a cat. The younger the pets require a lot of patience and training. Do you have the time and patience to train them. Maybe middle ground is best in getting a pet that is a year old.

finding the right pet

Traits – The shelter should be able to tell you if the pet works with other animals in your home. They can also tell you if your pet should have a companion. They can also tell you if the animal is child friendly, requires play time, large yard, etc.

Space – Do you have the space that the pet will need to roam and place. If you live an efficiency apartment, a great dane might not be for you. You want to have enough space where you and the animal(s) will be happy.

History – find out the pets history as best the shelter knows. Why was it surrendered. Does it have any medical conditions that require medication, accommodations, surgery, gentle care, etc.

Meet – Have everyone in the household come and spend time with the animal. Does everyone like the animal. Is the pet warm up to everyone. Does it growl or nip at children? Spend a good amount of time with the animal so you can see how it interacts. 30 minutes or more is good.

What pet have you adopted?