It is important to remember when adopting a dog, that you are adopting a brand new family member and that change in your home is to be expected. This is a wonderful time for your family and your new pet, but it also can be very stressful. Understanding some of the questions to raise and some of the things to look for will help make your experience at the animal shelter easier.
Make sure that you find out from the shelter staff the time frame that you can expect an adoption through their facility to take. Some shelters have a slower time frame that they like to operate within, which allows for several meetings with the animal over this span of time to ensure a good home fit and also to enable other family members, such as a spouse or child, to meet and interact with the animal. Other shelters have a much quicker time frame that they operate under, which allows for space to be opened for another animal needing sheltering and adoptive services.
Ask questions about the animal’s background. Find out what is known about the dog’s history: Was the dog surrendered or taken in as a stray? How long has the dog been living at the shelter? Are there any known medical considerations, such as heartworms, allergies, or wounds being treated? Are there any known psychological considerations, such as aggression around food, not getting along with cats, or a history of abuse? The answers to these questions can help you get a feel for the dog’s personality and how he may react in given situations.
Find out about the shelter’s spay and neuter policy. Some of the animals brought into the shelter will have already been spayed or neutered; however, those who have not will likely have to have the surgery as part of their adoptive agreement. This procedure is performed to sterilize the dog and prevent additional unwanted dogs. Often, the facility will contact you once the dog settles in your home to come in and have the procedure done.
Understanding how dog adoptions work will help to streamline the process and reduce miscommunication between you and your selected animal shelter.
