1. Am I financially ready to adopt? The ASPCA estimates the general cost of dog ownership to be $420 to $780 per year, not including licensing, collar and leash, carrier and/or crate, training classes, or grooming. This cost can drastically change at any given time if your pet has a medical emergency, develops a need for more expensive long-term care (including medications, special diet, etc.) or you just want to shower your pup with the highest quality bedding, food, and toys! It is important to take into account the lifespan of your pet, as well, when looking at your finances. You may be able to afford a pet now if you are single or working a great job. But if you were to have children or suddenly lose your job, would your pet lose their home, as well?
2. Do I have time to care for a pet? Between daily exercise, feedings, and trips to the dog park or the vet’s office, taking care of an animal takes time. A large number of animals end up in shelters because their owners realized they just did not have time for a pet. Regardless of your schedule, your pooch will still need daily walks, food, water, and loving attention. Dogs by nature are loyal to their pack leaders. Are you able to be as loyal to them?
3. Is it a good time in my life for me to adopt? Are you a student temporarily living with roommates that may be able to help you take care of your pet now, but won’t be around next year? Are you a parent with young children? As much as the idea of having a cute, cuddly pup around may seem right, do you really have the time and energy to properly care for a pet?
4. Can I have a pet where I live? Am I willing to move to a place that allows pets in the future? A huge number of animals end up in shelters and at high risk of euthanasia because their owners could not find a home that allows pets. Many rental communities and condo associations don’t allow pets or have restrictions. Make sure you know what these are before bringing an animal home. There are a number of resources online regarding pet-friendly housing. If you had to move on short notice, could you take your pet?
5. Am I planning on getting married or having children? Your pet is a part of your family – to dogs, you are their ‘pack’ and if your family changes, theirs changes too. Moving in with your significant other or bringing a new baby into the home is also a big change for your dog. With new babies especially, you may have less time for your dog at first which can lead to behavioral problems. If you are expecting or plan on having children in the future, speak with a trainer on how best to prepare your pet for this major change. Your dog is not disposable and should not be treated as such. When preparing for a change in your family, are you willing to give your pet the time and affection that it needs to adjust, as well?
6. How much research have I done on different breeds? Beagles are adorable, energetic, huge furballs of love. But, they can also be a handful…and boy can they talk! Can your lifestyle accommodate an active Golden Retriever? How much do you really know about that adorable breed you’re thinking about and how well would they fit in with your personality? What are your limits when it comes to certain instinctual behaviors of different breeds, such as digging, baying, or just plain loads of energy?
7. Am I prepared to care for a pet for the next 8-16 years, or more? When you adopt a dog, you are committing to caring for that animal for their entire life. Depending on the breed, a dog can live between 8-16 years, if not longer. Can you see yourself 10 years from now still being able or willing to care for a dog?

Now that you have read through the above and know you’re ready to take the next step in making your family one member larger, learn more about our adoption process and fill out a survey!