Welcoming Home Your Furry Friend!

Introduction

Adopting a dog is a life-changing decision that brings joy, companionship, and responsibility into your life. A Comprehensive Guide to dog adoption will help. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent, the process of adopting a dog should be approached thoughtfully and responsibly.

There are a lot of things you will need to do prior to bringing home your furry friend and this guide will assist you all the way.

Keep this in mind, whether you rescue an older dog or a puppy, a lot of dogs tend to follow the 3-3-3 rule when getting acclimated: 3 days of feeling overwhelmed and nervous. 3 weeks of settling in. 3 months of building trust and bonding with you.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of adopting a dog, from preparation to bringing your new furry friend home and life beyond.

Preparing for Adoption

Before going to the pet adoption location, there are some things you need to do ahead of time. These are mentioned below.

1. Assess Your Lifestyle

Before adopting a dog, it’s crucial to assess your lifestyle and determine if you’re ready for the responsibilities that come with dog ownership. Ask yourself:

• Do you have enough time to dedicate to a dog?
• Is your living situation suitable for a dog?
• Can you afford the costs associated with dog ownership, including food, vet care, training, and grooming?

2. Choose the Right Breed

Each dog breed has its own unique characteristics, energy levels, and needs. Research breeds to find the one that matches your lifestyle and preferences. Consider factors like size, exercise requirements, and temperament. Keep in mind that mixed-breed dogs can also make wonderful pets.

3. Budget for Dog Ownership

Owning a dog does require financial investment beyond the initial adoption fee. Make a budget for ongoing expenses, including food, treats, grooming, vaccinations, and unexpected vet bills. It’s essential to be financially prepared for the long-term commitment of dog ownership. The average age of a dog living is from 10 – 13 years depending upon breed. So, budget accordingly. The average adoption fee varies from $50 – $500 depending upon the state where you live. The average monthly expenses for a dog is: $164.

Breakdown of Estimated Monthly Expenses:

• Food: $10 – $15
• Medications: $30
• Waste Disposal: $30
• *Housing Fees: $10 – $100
• Miscellaneous Costs: $30 – $200
• Preventive Medications Every 6 Months: $130 – $190
• Core Vaccinations Every 3 Years: $90 – $360
• Routine Checkups Annually: $45 – $300
• Boarding Annually: $125 – $250
• Emergencies: Between $1,000 – $2,000
• Dog Toys: $10 – $15
• Dog Bed: $25 – $200

*If you live in associations, they may assess you an extra homeowner’s association fee for the dog.

4. Find a Reputable Shelter or Rescue

When shopping for a dog, look for reputable animal shelters or rescue organizations in your area. These organizations provide a safe haven for dogs in need and often have a variety of breeds and ages available for adoption. Check their reviews, visit their facilities, and ensure they follow ethical practices.

5. Prepare Your Home

Before bringing your new dog home, make your living space safe and welcoming. Remove any hazards, secure trash cans, and purchase necessary supplies such as food and water bowls, a leash, name tag, crate, and toys. Create a designated space for your dog to eat, sleep, and play. Check out our article on Puppy Proofing Your Home, just click on the link.

The Adoption Process

This step assumes that you have decided on which shelter or rescue center you have chosen for the adoption.

1. Visit the Shelter or Rescue Center

Visit the shelter or rescue center you’ve chosen during their visiting hours. Take your time to interact with the dogs available for adoption. This will help you get a sense of their personalities and choose a dog that fits your lifestyle.

2. Ask Questions

Do not hesitate to ask the shelter or rescue center staff questions about the dog’s history, health, and behavior. Inquire about vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and any known medical issues. The more information you have, the better you can prepare for your pet.

If you are getting a puppy, ask what their size as an adult dog is. Knowing this information, you can plan on getting the proper dog bed for his size. Ask if the staff knows his sleeping style as this determines which type of dog bed to buy.

3. Consider Adoption Fees

Most shelters and rescue centers charge an adoption fee to cover the cost of caring for the dog. These fees can vary widely, so be prepared to budget for them accordingly. Remember that you’re not just buying a pet; you’re contributing to the welfare of other animals in need. The adoption fee ranges from $50 – $500, with the average fee about $300. The average fee will vary from state to state.

4. Schedule a Home Visit

Some shelters and recue centers may require a home visit to ensure your living environment is safe and suitable for a dog. Be prepared for this step and make any necessary adjustment to your home based on their recommendations.

5. Complete the Adoption Application

Once you’ve found the right dog and passed the home visit, you’ll need to fill out an adoption application. This application helps the shelter or rescue center assess if you’re a suitable match for the dog in question.

6. Wait for Approval

The adoption process can take time as shelters and rescue centers review applications and conduct background checks. Be patient during this period and trust the process. It’s all in the best interest of the dog’s welfare.

7. Search for a Vet

As you are waiting for approval, you can search out a vet that is in your area. Visit them at their office and discuss with them the breed of dog you are adopting. Also, ask for a list of vaccinations and fees. This will help you make any changes to your budget.