RSS
Home
Pets 101: Questions to ask a shelter before you adopt a pet
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
.jpg)
Gypsy is looking for her perfect match in a new family.
Did you know that all animal shelters or animal rescue organizations are not alike? On one end of the spectrum there are shelters that scrutinize adoptive families and provide medical care, humane housing and socialization for the animals in their care.
On the opposite end of the scale there are less conscientious groups who turnover large numbers of cats and dogs and never give consideration to the match between the pet and its new human guardian.
It’s important for adoptive families to be well-matched with their new pet, especially in the areas of: personality, energy level, size and age. Sending a homeless cat or dog to a family where they are not well suited for each other creates a miserable situation for both the animal and humans. This scenario often ends with the pet being returned to the shelter, which is upsetting for everyone involved. There is nothing sadder than seeing an exuberant little puppy being returned because his new owners weren’t prepared to live with a high energy dog.
Here is a list of questions to ask an animal shelter before adopting a new pet:
- Ask to see the living conditions of the pets to determine if they are clean, humane and safe.
- Ask if the animals have been examined by a veterinarian.
- Has the shelter has disclosed any health problems or special needs the pet requires?
- Make sure the cats and dogs have been vaccinated.
- Be sure the pets have been spayed or neutered. Some groups hand out vouchers, so new owners can take pets to be “fixed” at a later date. Too many kittens and puppies have been born because an owner intended to use a spay/neuter voucher, but never followed through.
- Ask if the animals have been evaluated for temperament issues. This is very important in your selection process. If you want to adopt a dog that will play with your children, it is good to know ahead of time which dogs like kids.
- Inquire if the cats and dogs have been socialized or trained. Some shelters teach basic obedience commands, walking on a leash and even housetraining.
- Ask if the shelter offers education and support if you have any behavior problems.
- Will they allow you to return the cat or dog if the adoption does not work out?
Here are questions the animal shelter should ask you:
- Where will the pet stay during the day and at night?
- How many hours a day will the cat or dog stay home alone?
- What type of prior experience do you have raising an animal?
- If you rent, do they want to see a letter from your landlord that permits pets and states any size or weight limitations?
- Has the organization discussed the annual cost to own a cat or dog?
- Do they provide a space where you can get to know the animal?
- Do they suggest that you bring other pets to the adoption center for a “meet and greet” with the new pet? You may have fallen in love with an adorable little kitten, but your dog at home may not feel the same way.
Reputable shelters who are concerned about the placement of their pets should be happy to answer these questions. However, if you find an organization that is hasty in adopting a pet, or is unable to give reasonable answers to these questions, walk away and report them to Animal Control.
Homeless pets deserve to receive first-rate care and the best opportunity possible to find the perfect family so the bond they create with their new guardians will last a lifetime.
Photo: Heaven Can Wait Animal Society
Related Articles:
Comments
