Thinking about introducing a new dog into your family's home? Here are a few things to consider before heading to your local shelter:
- Ensure your dog is spayed or neutered. It also doesn't hurt to double-check that your dog is up to date on his vaccinations before taking him home.
- Consider getting your pup microchipped. Although we don't want to think about our new family members running away, sometimes accidents happen. Having your pet microchipped makes having them returned so much more likely.
- Take into account the type of hair they have. Are you looking for a giant Golden Retriever that's friendly but sheds like crazy? Or are you angling for a hypoallergenic Chinese Crested? Sorting out the details beforehand will save you from surprises down the line.
- Make sure you can afford it. While the adoption fees are usually minimal, dog food and heart worm medication cost money. It's also important to discuss pet insurance options, as vet visits can be pricey depending on the ailment.
- Settle on a schedule. Do you and your partner work? Or are the kids going to be responsible for ensuring Sparky gets walked every day? Going into pet ownership with a plan is your best bet.