Advice on Adopting Your Next Dog

There’s nothing like the feeling of giving a pet in-need a good home. If you’ve been considering adopting a dog, here is some advice to keep in mind. Summer is a great time to adopt, especially if you have children who are out of school and can get used to the routine of caring for a new pet. Discuss this checklist with your family before you head out to an adoption event, rescue, or the local shelter!

Agreement on Type/Breed: Before you adopt, it’s important to have an honest conversation with your family about the type and breed of dog you’re looking for. This can include things like purebred / mixed-breed, age, size and grooming needs. Also, decide on whether or not a puppy or an adult dog is a better fit for your family.

Lifestyle: Bringing a dog into your family is a big decision, so it’s important to make sure you choose one that fits with your lifestyle. Will your dog spend a good part of the day with someone in the family, or be alone? Are you interested in including your dog in your workout routine? The answers to these questions can impact the age and breed of dog you select.

Timing: Timing is very important when you bring a dog into the family. They are a huge commitment, and you need to make sure that everyone is on board with the decision. This includes any upcoming life-changing events like getting married, having kids, taking a dream vacation, and so on. Sit down and discuss whether right now is the best time to welcome a dog into your home. Remember, this commitment is for the life of your pet, and you want to make sure they feel comfortable and loved.

Look Around: In the St. Louis area, there are a variety of local shelters, breed-specific rescues, and more where you could potentially find your forever furry friend. Take the time to learn about the facility where you’re adopting from, and also about the dog. The facility will likely have information about how the dog ended up there, and they should be willing to share that with you. Also, make sure you understand their adoption policies, including what your options are in case you can no longer care for your pet.

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