|
Before You Adopt an
Animal...
Think
about these things to be sure you are
prepared to take care of a furry friend for life:
 | Do you have
the time to care for your friend properly? Different
animals, even dependent upon the breed, require certain kinds and amounts of attention to
be happy and healthy. Your friend will need quality time with you, regular exercise
and feedings as well as training and veterinary care. Will you have the time
necessary to devote to this animal, or are you busy with work, travel and
entertainment?
|
| Are your
lifestyles compatible? Animals,
like humans, have their own temperaments. Consider finding a companion who enjoys living
the way you do. Do you enjoy being out and about or relaxing at home? Do you
prefer keeping busy at all times or enjoying the quiet? It's best to adopt an
animal that enjoys the same type of lifestyle that you do...that way you won't end up
looking to re-home your furry friend because "it wasn't a good match."
|
| Can you care
for your friend for a lifetime? Animals have
different life expectancies. Think about how long your furry friend will be with you. For
example, cats have an average lifespan of 14-20 years depending upon her health and
lifestyle. Dogs may live for 10-20 years depending upon the breed, size and
health. See the chart below for average lifespans and truly consider whether you are
able to make a committment to this animal for the rest of it's life.
Also, consider whether or not
you plan on moving in the near future. If so, will you be committed to taking your
companion animal with you? If you will be moving to an apartment, many places have
limitations on the animals they allow, if they allow them at all. Start researching
months before you will need to move to ensure you can take your companion with you.
Rehoming a family member just because you have to move should never be an option .
|
| Will your new
animal be a welcome addition to the family? Be sure
to consider the entire family, especially other companion animals, when thinking of adding
that special someone. Will everyone welcome the animal and be happy with the
decision? Does any family member have medical concerns that may end up causing you
to look for a new home for the animal in another year or two (for example, allergies or
asthma)? Will all family members be committed to taking care of the animal and
accept him or her as a family member, not property?
|
Research the animal of
your choice before making a final decision. You and your new friend will be glad you did.
|
