So You Want To Adopt?

Please Think Before You Leap

There are various situations to consider before adopting a life-long companion. It can happen to the best of us. You see a cute, fluffy puppy with white paws begging for attention. Or maybe it's a wrinkly, giant Saint Bernard with soulful eyes. You take one look, and the next thing you know, you're contemplating which size dog bed to buy.

Falling in love with a pet is easy and sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest joys, but they come with a long-term commitment that lasts years into the future.

Adopting a pet, though, is a big decision. Dogs (and cats) require lots of time, money, and commitment and that commitment can last over 15 years in many cases. Pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you adopt a companion.

Things To Know

The fact that you're thinking about adopting means you're a responsible and caring person. But before you make that decision to bring a furry friend into your life, take a moment to think over these questions:

Why do you want a pet? It's amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before they get a pet. Adopting a pet just because it's "the thing to do" or because the kids have been pining for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. Don't forget that pets may be with you 10 plus years. Where will you be in life in ten years' time? Will you have a new baby? Heading to retirement?
Do you have time for a pet? Dogs and cats need care that cannot be postponed just because you're tired or busy. They require food, water, exercise, care, and attention every day of every year. Many animals in the shelter are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.
Can you afford a pet? The costs of pet ownership can be very high. Licenses, training classes, grooming, toys, food, and other expenses add up quickly. Veterinary expenses can be astronomical. Have you planned for insurance to cover these costs? One sudden move can result in a torn ACL and the need for a $6,000 surgery.
Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a pet can cause? Chewed furniture, damaged flooring, and unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership.
Can you have a pet where you live? Many rental communities don't allow pets, and most of the rest have restrictions. Homeowners' associations and some municipalities have breed restrictions. Make sure you know what the rules are before you bring a companion animal home.
Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet? If you have kids under six years old, you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a dog as tiny kids are a metric ton of work already and pet ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible or serious parental supervision. If you're a student, in the military, or travel frequently as part of your work, waiting until you are reasonably settled is wise.
Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind? Animal size is not the only variable to think about here. Many Great Pyrenees will bark if they hear a cricket chirp and your neighbors may not be friendly over the barking if you're in close quarters. A border collie might need a fenced yard to get the exerecise it needs. On the other hand, some big dogs are laid back and quite content to lie on a couch all day. Know your lifestyle and your living arrangements and consider how your life may or may not be compatible with the dog of your dreams.
Do you know who will care for your pet while you're away on vacation? You'll need either reliable friends or family or money to pay for a boarding kennel or pet-sitting service.
Will you be a responsible pet owner? Obeying community leash and licensing laws and keeping identification tags on your pets are all part of being a responsible owner. Of course, giving your pet love, companionship, exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary care are also essential.
Finally, are you prepared to keep and care for the pet for his or her entire lifetime? When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime. Your goals and needs may change, but the dog or cat will still be there requiring care. If the puppy you adopt grows up to be a grouchy old dog and you have a toddler you've got a problem. No one can predict the future, but you need to think about where you will be in life down the road when making adoption plans.

Get A Dog For Life

Sure, it's a long list of questions. But a quick stroll through any animal shelter will help you understand why answering these questions before you adopt is so important.

Many of the animals at the shelter are there because they were owned by people who didn't think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got that cute puppy.

Please, don't make the same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a pet can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love-for the life of the pet.

If you're ready to adopt a companion for life, please click the links above at the top of the page to see a sample of the many amazing dogs we have available for adoption at Big Fluffy Dog Rescue.

If someone catches your eye and you would like to meet him or her, please fill out an Adoption Application.

Ready to Adopt?

Apply to Adopt a Dog