Things to Consider when Adopting a Shelter or Rescue Dog
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” – Roger Caras
If you’ve ever owned a dog you know how much they can add to your life. In fact, according to Time Magazine, dogs are more than just cuddly companions — research continues to show that pets bring real health benefits to their owners. Having a dog around can lead to lower levels of stress for both adults and kids. They’ve been found to decrease the risk of asthma in children and have been linked to lower blood pressure.
You really can’t go wrong when it comes to adding a new member to your home and if you’re considering adopting a shelter or rescue dog, you’re doing a great thing! Did you know 6–8 million animals end up in shelters each year, half of which will probably not be adopted? Furthermore, pets adopted from shelters and rescue groups typically cost less than pets purchased or even acquired for free—once you add in the cost of vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchip, dewormer and other “extras” included in your adoption fee, you’ll probably be surprised what a bargain an adopted pet really is! Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to adding a new furry family member to your home from a shelter or rescue, according to the Human Society.
Do your homework
The first question to answer is what kind of pet will be the best fit for your household? Do you have enough time to devote to the daily needs of a dog? Is there someone in your household who is allergic? Have you considered a non-traditional pet such as a rat or another small animal? Doing your homework in advance will make your search easier and increase the chances that your new pet will be a happy addition to the family.
Waiting for the right one
If for some reason you don’t find who you’re looking for right away, don’t be discouraged. Sadly shelters and rescue groups receive new animals every day, so keep checking back with them. Some groups also keep a waiting list, so they can call you if an animal matching your preference becomes available.
Visit local shelters
It’s important to check the websites of your local shelter. Don’t forget to also visit in person—sometimes all it takes to find your perfect match is to look directly into an animal’s eyes and fall in love.
When it comes to taking care of your pet, there is a lot of information out there. As owners you just want the best for them. Meyer’s Tails Up Farm helps owners understand their dogs’ language to grow the relationship and give them the life they deserve. With a custom plan, you will know exactly what to do to become your dog’s hero. Meyer’s Tails Up Farm is piloted by owner Kent Meyer, third generation dog person who has trained dogs for decades.Visit us online today to learn more and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!