You’re aware of the pet overpopulation problem, and you don’t want to do anything to contribute to it. In fact, you want to help and adopt your next dog from a rescue group or shelter. Before choosing your new best friend, here are some things to think about.
Are you really ready for a dog? Dogs are loyal companions who bring us love and joy. However, it’s important to remember what their care requires. Do you have the time and resources to exercise, train, feed, groom and vet a dog? How many hours a day would your dog be alone? What’s the plan if you go on vacation? Is everyone in the family completely onboard with adding a new family member? Do you have enough space? Think about your life honestly and be realistic.
Take a dog on a trial run and foster before adopting. Perhaps the smartest and easiest thing you can do to make sure a dog fits in with your lifestyle and family is fostering first. Rescue groups are always looking for fosters, and will make an effort to place a dog with you inline with your wants and needs. If you fall in love, great! As the foster parent you can adopt the dog and make him yours forever. Not exactly what you are looking for? Your foster dog is perfect for someone out there, so keep him until he’s adopted and you can try out another. Enjoy the satisfaction and selfless act of saving multiple lives!
Don’t overlook adult dogs.
Puppies are unarguably adorable, but it’s important to remember they are a lot of work. Untrained, high energy, and much smaller then they ultimately will be, puppies are not always well suited for busy schedules, inactive lifestyles, or very young children. In an older dog, you can find a wonderful companion with fewer behavior issues and less exercise needs. The love they give and joy they bring in return is just the same.
Don’t generalize based on breed. Just because you heard Pitbulls are killers or Chihuahua’s are yappy, does not mean it’s true. Educate yourself on breed stereotypes, and judge each particular dog you meet individually.
Avoid making an emotional decision. Visiting a shelter is no doubt a sad experience. Your heartstrings are tugged and you feel sorry all of the homeless dogs. Save yourself even more heartache later by not letting these emotions guide you to adopting a dog that might not be right for you or your environment.
Enjoy the process of adopting and you will find the perfect dog for you!
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