Things to Consider
- You'll be saving the life of an animal in need.
- Please adopt a pet from a reputable shelter or rescue.
- Ask friends, groomers or veterinarians to recommend one near you.
- Rescued pets are a true bargain! They are up to date on vaccinations, tested, micro-chipped, already spayed or neutered and, in most cases, have received behavioral observations.
- Shelters and rescues often have purebred animals and young animals.
- Your new pet will provide you with unwavering devotion and love.
- All animals have different personalities and breed traits. Shelter staff can help you make the right choice based on your preferences.
- Reputable shelters/rescues will take the pet back if there is a problem you can't resolve
- Annual cost of owning a dog, ranges from $700 - $4,000
- Annual cost of owning a cat, ranges from $700 – over $3,000
Ten Tips for Responsible Pet Owners
- Commit to a lifelong relationship with your pet
- Make sure your pet is properly identified (tags, collar, microchip) and your contact information is up to date
- Keep your pet healthy by providing fresh water and good quality food daily
- Spay/Neuter your pet
- Keep your pet's vaccines current
- Treat your pet monthly with preventatives against parasites, worms, fleas, and ticks
- Take your pet regularly to a veterinarian to maintain your pet's good health
- Exercise and play with your pet daily
- Clean up after your pet
- Include your pet in your emergency/disaster plan
Before You Bring Home Your New Pet
-
Choose a veterinarian, make an appointment for your pet within the first few weeks
-
Purchase the following:
- Food
- Treats
- Bowls
- Bed
- Toys
- Litter box
- Litter
- Scratching Post
- Carrier
- Potty Training Pads
- Collar
- Harness
- Leash
- Crate
- Grooming Brush
- Nail Clippers
- Appropriate outdoor shelter
-
Safety proof your home
For helpful tips, go to the American Humane Association's website
If you can't find your ideal pet in a shelter or rescue
- Try HomeToHome.org and Adopt-a-Pet's Rehome (for owner-to owner rehoming)
- Try Foster Networks through Petfinder
- Consider senior pets, blind & deaf pets, cat cafes or breed specific rescues.
If you are still unsuccessful and want to explore finding a reputable breeder, here are some tips to consider:
Dogs: Ask your veterinarian for referrals, attend dog shows and national breed clubs for direct interaction; look for breeders who perform health clearances (like OFA), focus on a few breeds, raise puppies in a home environment with early socialization, and thoroughly interview them, ensuring they're transparent about the health, temperament, and lineage of the pet.
- Health & Testing: Ask for proof of OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications for the parents' hips, elbows, eyes, and heart, and check results online.
- Breed Expertise: Deeply knowledgeable about their breed's standards, health issues, and temperament.
- Transparency: Expect to see where puppies are raised (clean, stimulating environment) and to meet the mother dog.
- Socialization: Puppies should be exposed to various sights, sounds, and people from a young age.
- Limited Litters: Focus on only one or two breeds and produce puppies infrequently.
Cats: To find a reputable cat breeder, start with major registries like Cat Fanciers Association or The International Cat Association websites, ask your vet for referrals, and prioritize breeders who offer health guarantees, perform genetic testing, allow cattery visits, prioritize kitten socialization, and provide extensive documentation and references. Avoid pet stores and always ask numerous questions to ensure they prioritize cat welfare over profit.