There’s nothing more heartbreaking than returning a rescue dog or a rescue cat to the shelter after realizing that said animal wasn’t a suitable addition to the family. To help ensure this doesn’t happen, there are several questions to ask yourself before adopting a pet in California.
Can I afford a pet?
Adoption fees are just the beginning. Vet exams and tests, vaccinations, medications, food, litter, toys, and regular checkups are a few examples of the costs to take into consideration—not to mention unforeseen expenses that may come into play further down the line.
Do I have enough time to care for a pet?
Rescue dogs need a lot of exercise and attention, while rescue cats require play sessions to stay active. Do you have enough time to train your adopted pet? If you live alone and work long hours, who’s taking care of your rescue puppy?
Do I have suitable accommodation?
Sometimes, your landlord or condo association may not allow pets. You should make certain this isn’t an issue; some shelters require written letters of consent from adoptees regarding this matter. Also important to take into consideration is the size of your dwelling and whether your rescue puppy will have easy access to an outside space.
Are my children responsible enough for a pet?
Very often, it’s the youngsters in the family that push for a cat or dog adoption. However, make sure your kids understand the responsibilities entailed with pet adoption. Furthermore, certain breeds of cats and dogs don’t mix well with large families and vice versa. Before heading down to the nearest shelter, you should look into what breed might suit the family and everyone’s lifestyle.
Three Tips before finalizing a pet adoption