There are many things to consider before getting a dog or puppy. First off, they are much more than a fun and cute companion to play with only when you are bored.
Dogs and puppies are caring, sensitive, and trainable beings that when raised right, can be your lifelong best friend who will be there to comfort and protect you through many milestones. If you think you are ready for this step, here is a handy guide to adopting a dog.
Questions To Ask Before Adopting A Dog
Before anything else, you must first address the following questions to ask before adopting a dog,
Ask Yourself:
- Are you ready to take care of another living thing? To feed them, play with them, comfort them, and keep them clean?
- Do you have enough space to raise a dog? Does your home have a yard, or apartment have enough room?
- Do you travel a lot? If so, do you have someone who can look after them while you are away?
- Puppies are more time-consuming than people realize; do you have enough time for them especially while they are young?
- Are you financially capable or have a steady source of finances to feed, shelter, and bring the canine to the vet when needed?
- Do you have the necessary supplies on hand?
- Is this an impulse or is it something you have carefully thought about?
- Do you know what breeds are best for you?
Ask The Adoption Group or Shelter:
- How old is the puppy? Puppies should not be separated from their litter too early as this can cause developmental problems. It is best to adopt them when they are between 8 to 12 weeks old.
- Have they been socialized with other humans and dogs? This will help you better anticipate the puppy or dog’s personality and reaction when around new people or other animals.
- What vaccines have they gotten and when are they due for their next round of shots?
- Have they been dewormed?
- Have any of the puppies from the litter been sick and has the vet checked them? This will help you know if they have any sickness or have a high chance of getting sick.
- What are they currently being fed? Whatever the puppy or dog is accustomed to, it is ideal to continue this while they are adjusting to your home. This lessens risk of gastrointestinal distress and anxiety.
- What documents and support can you provide me?
How To Adopt A Puppy
#1 Know where to adopt one responsibly. Adopting a puppy or dog pertains to going to the shelter, and not purchasing them from other sources.
While you may be tempted to drive to the pet store or contact a breeder, we strongly advise you to consider going to the shelter first. Shelter dogs are growing up without families and will soon be put to sleep if they are deemed unwanted because of age and other factors. Pet stores and breeders are infamous for having dogs reproduce at an unhealthy pace, causing much distress and medical conditions to the canine.
