How To Pick The Perfect Pet

You’ve made the exciting and lifechanging decision to adopt a pet – congratulations! Adopting a dog, cat or critter can be one of the most rewarding and fun decisions you can make, but there’s a lot to consider when choosing the right one for you. Before you enter the shelter, it’s a good idea to ask yourself the following questions:

“Why do I want a pet?”

While the main reason people adopt pets is for companionship in some format, there may be other things that factor into your decision, including physical activity and security. Dogs in particular encourage a more active lifestyle and are likely to alert their owners to potential dangers, which may be helpful aspects to consider when thinking about why you want a pet.

“Do I have time for a pet?”

Bringing a dog, cat or critter into your household will change the way you go about your day. Pets require food, water, exercise and attention every day without exception and can’t be ignored just because you’re tired or have a busy day. Think about how bringing an animal into your life will alter your routine, and think about if that’s a commitment you’re ready to make each and every day.

“Can I afford a pet?”

Adopting a pet is more than just an adoption fee and food. Costs of pet ownership include annual veterinary care (vaccinations, preventative care, heartworm tests, etc.), food, toys, cat litter, training classes, grooming, boarding, and more. And while it’s something no pet owner ever wants to go through, unexpected veterinary care and/or surgery happens to most pet parents at some point in their animal’s life. Are you able to set aside a little extra money in case your furry friend needs emergency care?

“How will the pet fit into my lifestyle?”

This may be the biggest bullet point to think about when adopting a pet. If you are an active person who’s always on the go, you may be more equipped to adopt a higher-energy dog than someone who isn’t as active. If you’re a homebody who loves to read and watch movies, a cat or an older dog could be the perfect fit for you. It’s important to learn about different breeds and their needs, while thinking about how and if that would fit into your day-to-day life. Adoption counselors at local shelters and rescues can also help match you up with a pet that would best suit your lifestyle.

“Am I ready to do training and behavior classes, if needed?”

While that puppy may look like a sweet, perfect angel in the shelter, the reality is that they would likely benefit from a basic obedience class while they’re young to learn manners and socialization skills. Classes are often helpful for adult dogs, too, who need a chance to build confidence or learn how to make canine or human friends more easily. While often costly, classes can be hugely beneficial to both the pet and their owners and improve communication between all parties – four-legged and two-legged alike.

“Am I prepared to love and care for the animal for its whole life?”

Shelters across the country see older animals surrendered to their care simply because they are no longer young and energetic. As you’re preparing to take home an 8-week-old puppy or kitten, keep in mind that you’re making a commitment to that animal for its entire life – no matter how long that is.

By choosing to adopt from HSMO or another shelter, you’re both saving a life and freeing up space for the next animal in need! Browse HSMO’s adoptable pets here. Thank you for choosing adoption.