How To Choose Your Right Pet In An Animal Shelter
You’ve finally decided to get a rescue pet, and now you’ve arrived at the shelter and want to take them all home. How do you choose? Each one will have their unique personality and charm, but it’s important to consider the right choice for you, your family and your future pal when choosing a pet.
Which animal Do I Choose?
Depending on which shelter you visit, you may find a menagerie of anything from dogs and cats to rabbits and birds to choose from. Do your research and decide what pet best suits you and your family. If you are constantly out of the house, a dog might not be the right fit for you. If you live in a flat, it might be kinder to take a smaller four- or even two-legged friend rather than a cat. Go in with an idea of the right pet for you – and try your best to stick to it.
Do They Have Any Needs?
Make sure to check out your potential pet’s history. Has it been mistreated in the past? Make sure you are able to provide for all their needs. If a mistreated dog hates loud noises, don’t bring him home to a house full of children. Pick the pet that you can best provide for. If they have medical needs you can meet, find out what they are straight away so you can take them home with a prescription. You might be swayed by their heartbreaking story, but you don’t want to add to it by bringing them back later.
Get To Know Them
Just like people, you can’t expect to hit it off with your potential pet right from the get-go. If you see a pet you love the look of, but they don’t seem keen, try to arrange multiple visits so you can get to know each other in a familiar environment. It also gives you more time to consider their needs and how they’ll fit into your family. Why not treat them to the best dog food UK to bond and make friends ahead of the journey home?
Introduce Them To The Family
Some shelters will allow you to bring your dog in to meet his new furry friend (if it’s another dog). Try not to make the choice alone, and take the time to get your other pets and family integrated. Your partner or kids might think of something you missed in your haste to come home with a new arrival. If your pets don’t get on, or your kids aren’t convinced, it’s important to listen to them and avoid any adoption remorse later down the line.
Picking a rescue pet is a heartwarming endeavor as you can create the home they need and have a wonderful new addition to the family. You might give a mistreated cat the new lease of life they need, or a loveable dog an excited new family. Taking your time and not rushing home with the first pet you see is the best way to make sure you and your pet are the right fit for each other.
