If you and your family are looking to adopt a new pet for your household, you will likely start at your local pet shelter. Some people may be a bit surprised when they arrive at the shelter and find that pet adoption has more steps than simply choosing the right pet for you and taking it home. Before heading to the shelter, make sure you know what to do and what to do before adopting.

Adopted fart!

How to adopt a shelter pet

  • Talk to the people at the shelter – The people at the shelter are the ones who have spent the most time with each individual animal and know their personalities. Before adopting, talk to people who care for animals about your family and lifestyle. Do you like to do outdoor activities or are you more of a homebody? Do you have small children or other pets in the house? These people can help you find the pets that best suit your family’s lifestyle, making the bonding process a breeze for both your family and the new pet!

  • Don’t rush! – The fact that you have decided to have a pet does not mean that you have to go with one on your first trip to a shelter. Spend time with and get to know the pets you are considering. Some shelters will allow you to take dogs for walks and spend time alone or as a family with the pet you are considering.

  • Bring your paperwork – Shelters like to make sure that when someone comes to adopt a pet they are doing so with the best intentions for the animal and are prepared for compromise. Make sure you have a photo ID with you and your current address. If you are a renter, some shelters may require you to have a copy of your rental agreement or written permission from your landlord that you can keep pets. These precautions help ensure that the pet is moved to a long-lasting and stable environment rather than an impulsive adoption that will end up at your doorstep in a week or two again.

  • Bring money – Shelters are not a free place to adopt a pet. They have to cover the expenses associated with the operation, and some shelters will spay / neuter and vaccinate pets when they first enter. Make sure you are prepared for the expenses necessary to bring your pet home.

  • Ask about your new pet’s medical history – While some shelters spay / neuter or vaccinate pets, not all do. Make sure you know what medical treatment your pet has received and what services it may need. Often times, it is best to plan a veterinary check-up soon after the adoption of your pet’s known history.

Why should you adopt a pet instead of buying a new one from a breeder or pet store? Pet shelters are often overwhelmed with abandoned pets who miss their homes and a loving family. Breeders raise pets to meet demand, while shelters try to find homes for the pets that already exist and need love.