ADOPTING A PET

If you are looking for a household pet, then Please consider giving a home to animals who are really looking for a home. There are so many animals that are currently in foster homes, kennels in the Humane Society, and some are out on the streets. But, I suggest contacting one of the organizations who specialize in placing pets who need a home.

Adopting a Pet
Our Precious Caleb on my Granddaughters Favorite Blanket!

One of the main reasons I suggest going this route is because I did it myself! We were looking for a dog and there were certain criteria that we were looking for. By looking online and reading a resume on each dog I thought might work, I was able to find out if they were good with children, housebroke, good with other animals, active or lap dogs and many other specifics. This was very beneficial to us because my grandchildren were small and very active. I had to make sure that we found a dog that could withstand their active play.

Also, I knew that I Had to Have a Small Dog! I know that everyone will probably write me complaining when I say this but, here goes…….small dogs….small poop. Big dogs…..Big Poop! Let’s just say that the little tootsie-roll size poop my precious dog leaves by the back fence is fine for me. Trying to clean up big piles of poop before my grandchildren end up playing in it…..not so much!

WHAT TO EXPECT

adopting a pet
Caleb on his Throne! He loves to get up on the pillows on the couch. I think it makes him feel bigger! LOL

OK – on to better topics! Here are some things to expect once you try to adopt from the reputable adoption centers. They will ask you a Ton of questions! You will have to send pictures of the inside and outside of your home and prove that you have a fenced in yard for your pet. I think I even had to get personal references for them. They are very picky where they place these animals because they don’t want them to suffer any more abuse than many of the animals have already suffered.

Our Caleb was abused in 2 previous homes before we adopted him. He still is very leery around my cane that I have to use to get around. I have to be very careful that I don’t accidentally hit him as he’s running around and I’m trying to walk because it’s obvious that someone hit him with something resembling a cane before.

FIND A GOOD ADOPTION AGENCY

As I mentioned previously, when looking for a pet to adopt, there are many different options available. You can certainly go to your local Humane Society. They are Always looking to place pets with people. I chose the path of using an adoption agency that I found online only because I was looking for something very specific. I wanted a certain size dog, one that they knew for certain was good with kids, preferably one that was already house broken also I wanted a very loving, cuddly dog. The Agency that I used was FOR (Friends of Rescue) and you can look them up online at www.FORrescue.net.

Since I am disabled, after years of working 50-60 hour weeks and always being on the run, I often get lonely during the day and I wanted an affectionate dog that would keep me company. One of the advantages of using these agencies who have volunteers who “foster” the animals in their homes while waiting for placement, is they KNOW these animals. The foster families will have a very good idea of how the animals behave and their different natures. This is definitely a big plus when searching for specific attributes in your pet. On the other hand, I know many people who have went to the Humane Society and instantly “clicked” with an animal and had great results. As I said, your options are open.

MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY

Once you decide you want to adopt a pet, then you must make sure you are ready! Depending on how you acquire your pet, make sure you find out which type of food the animal prefers and have it available when you bring your pet home. Have treats for your pet and also a bed or crate, depending on the amount of training you have to do.

You want to make sure that your pet feels at home as soon as possible. Put away anything that you don’t want your pet to bother — like your good shoes! You don’t want to be scolding your new pet in the beginning. Give them time to get acquainted with you and for them to feel comfortable. Adding a pet to your family is a Big Deal and can definitely be a very positive addition. Just do your research and make sure your are prepared and then enjoy your new member of your family!