Step1
Contact the shelter and schedule an appointment with an adoption counselor. She will know what dogs are available and which will match your lifestyle.
Step2
Consult a veterinarian about medical conditions common to certain breeds, or research breeds on the Internet or at the library.
Step3
Compile information and questions, grab the entire family and head for the shelter.
Step4
Request a shelter tour, visiting the wards and exercise areas. Clean, comfortable and odor-free conditions indicate quality care for the animals.
Step5
Observe all dogs for signs of respiratory disease. Coughing generally indicates kennel cough, a highly contagious but treatable infection.
Step6
Ask if all dogs have been examined by a veterinarian or animal technician, started on a vaccination program and given medication to remove intestinal parasites.
Step7
Select the dog of your choice and take him to the exercise area to play and interact with your family. Any sign of aggression is grounds for immediate rejection.
Step8
Caress and pet the dog, covering his entire body, looking for tumors, fleas or flea debris, hair loss or scaly, inflamed skin, which may indicate allergic dermatitis.
Step9
Avoid adopting a dog with a pre-existing skin condition, which can be difficult and costly to treat, creating misery for both dog and guardian.
Step10
Allow the dog to run on and off leash. Watch closely for signs of pain or reluctance to jump or turn quickly, which may indicate developing arthritis.
Step11
Pay the adoption fee and consider making an extra donation. Most animal shelters are not-for-profit organizations, operating solely on donated funds.
Step12
Make an appointment with your veterinarian soon after adoption. Follow the veterinarian's advice and complete the vaccination, worming and preventive heath care protocol.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 8/8/2006 check pet background for biting or attacking adults and children. even playful agression can be extremely harmful, particularly to toddlers. prevention is the key to a happy pet/family relationship. happy pet adoption!!
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Make sure, before you adopt a pet, that other pets in your household have all their shots. It'll save you time and money later, because most pets in shelters seem to have kennel cough.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 check pet background for biting or attacking adults and children. even playful agression can be extremely harmful, particularly to toddlers. prevention is the key to a happy pet/family relationship. happy pet adoption!!