Are you thinking of adopting a pet and but aren’t sure how to go about it?
First, ask yourself some important questions: Does your work schedule and other responsibilities keep you away from home a majority of each day? Are you prepared for a 10-20 year commitment to a new pet? If adopting a pet for your children, are you okay with the possibility that you will become the primary caretaker if your children lose interest or go off to college?
Ok, so you’ve thought it through and you are ready for your new pet: The next step is to prepare your home, and research which type of pet is best for you.
If you are considering a cat, you will need a litterbox, food, dishes, and a scratching post.
If you would like a dog, you will need dishes, a bed, leash/collar, and food. Next, evaluate the size, age, and temperament dog you are able to care for. Make sure to consider breed characteristics when making your choice. There are some basic guidelines to help you in this process. Typically, larger dogs are calmer; some small dogs are too delicate for younger children. And yes, all dogs shed and all dogs can cause allergic reactions (those reactions, however, can be greatly alleviated with a little diligence). Puppies are not good choices for homes with small children or households in which no one is home for many hours a day.
Now that you’ve researched what pet is the right match for you, and you have prepared your home for your new addition, you are ready to adopt. Your local Humane Society will have a great selection of animals that are all looking for the perfect home. If you’re a family that has determined that an older dog or cat better suits your lifestyle, there’s no better place to meet your match than at your local shelter! Once you have found your perfect companion, life will never be the same. You can expect years of love, companionship, and devotion that each and every adopted pet just needs a chance to give.
Brought to you by The Humane Society of Harford County, Inc. For more information or to adopt a pet, visit our page here or call 410-836-1090.