
May 15, 2025 | By, For Pet's Sake
What to consider before adopting a pet
Animal shelters across the nation are overcrowded. Luckily, choosing to adopt one of the many loving pets in search of a forever home is one of the best ways to combat the large number of homeless animals.
When adopting a pet, consider these important factors to ensure you and your furry friend are a compatible fit!
- Lifestyle and schedule: If 6 a.m. jogs and weekend treks through the mountains are part of your weekly routine, a high-energy breed makes the perfect exercise companion. If you’re a homebody who enjoys reading on the couch and taking leisurely walks around the neighborhood, a pet that likes to chill without the extra cardio will quickly become your new best friend. Consider not only your exercise habits but also your work schedule and hobbies that keep you out and about, and how you will factor in your pet to give them enough exercise and attention to stay healthy.
- Home size: The size and type of your home are important to determine your pet’s happiness and safety. Smaller breeds do well with apartment living if given enough exercise, but larger pets can grow cramped and anxious if they do not have adequate space to run around. Future owners should also consider other home safety factors, such as fenced and gated areas, floor level, windows, and potentially dangerous areas that pose a risk of injury or escape. Lastly, know the rules of your housing community, breed restrictions, and any potential threats in the area, like wildlife, wildfires, and flash flooding.
- Family size: A household full of kids is great for pets with lots of energy who love being the center of attention, while others do well with only singles and couples. Consider your family size, additional pets you may have (and their thoughts on an unknown, four-legged creature sharing their space), whether it will increase or decrease, and how your new pet may adapt to it. There are pros and cons of having large and small family sizes when it comes to adopting a pet, but what matters most is that everyone is on board with caring for and protecting their new family member.
- Breed: Shelters have a variety of breeds to choose from. While most are mixed, it is still important to research the characteristics and traits of the breed to have an idea of their health, behavior, dietary needs, and other factors that contribute to living a healthy life.
- Age: Puppies are always cute, but for first-time pet owners, the training, sleepless nights, and extra energy can be a tough adjustment that requires lots of patience. Older pets are often calmer and potty-trained but can be set in their behavior patterns that may be difficult to correct. At shelters, you can find pets of all ages, so consider what suits your household best.
- Behavior: Pets that have experienced shelter life all adapt differently. It is important to know that some pets have had negative experiences beforehand and may take time to adjust to their new homes. Inquire about behavior and past home life to consider any behavioral issues they may have down the line. Some pets may require professional training.
- Health: Unfortunately, some pets in the shelter have pre-existing health conditions. Many shelters provide medical care to treat these conditions to adopt them out, but some illnesses can be lifelong. Before adopting, determine whether your family has the resources and finances to provide proper care for pets with disabilities.
Adopting saves not only your new pet’s life but also gives another animal a chance at survival by opening up shelter space. Remember, pets are lifelong commitments that require lots of time, energy, and snuggles to keep them healthy and happy!
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insights to give your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.