Is anyone in your family allergic?

The web has a list of dogs who are considered non-allergic. (These are usually dogs with “hair” – poodles, etc.-rather than with “fur.”)

 

Do you have young children?

Find out which dogs may be uncomfortable around young children.

 

Like to keep your home pristine?

Some dogs shed; some cats scratch furniture. Some pets have accidents. If you cannot live with this, you are better off not adopting an animal!

 

Work long hours? Do you have time for an animal? Do I have the time and energy to care for a dog?

We do not adopt when a dog/cat is created for many hours. All dogs are different and they all have different needs for activity. We will inform you about their needs the best we can, so we can aid you in your decision. 

 

Trying to save money? Do you have the funds for the dog’s lifelong care? (i.e. food, toys, veterinary care, daycare if needed).

Expect yearly costs for vet visits, shots, flea and tick preventative, heart-worm preventative, food, toys, pet sitters, etc. Think ahead and ensure you have funds set aside for this family member. It is useful to have pet insurance, paid monthly, which can reduce the costs significantly if there is an illness/accident which could cost thousands in hospital care. The monthly cost of insurance is around £20-25, depending on the type. 

 

Are you adopting an animal that will need grooming every month? Are you aware of those costs? Have you planned for them?

Some dogs/cats need training to help them become the best they can be.

 

Are you willing to expend the time and money if your animal needs training?

Some dogs have anxiety issues. Some have behavioral problems, not knowing how to act in certain situations because of the lack of training and care. Dogs are very smart, they can learn everything, with the proper trainer, love and patience. 

 

Live in a small place but want a big dog?

It might not be enough for a bigger dog to be kept in a small apartment, especially if the dog needs a lot of activity. This depends on the age and temperament of the dog.

 

Do you have a fenced yard?

If you don’t have a large, fenced garden, you must be prepared to walk your dog several times a day and visit dog parks for exercise.

 

Travel a lot? What will happen to your pet while you are away? Have you planned for that?

You can take your dog with you or you can leave it with a person you trust, who is familiar with the dog. You can also get help from a dog trainer to look after your pet, you have to think about this carefully.

 

Thinking about having a baby soon? Other changes in your life coming up?

We expect your animal to be a “forever” animal. If you don’t think you can continue to make that commitment when there are changes in your lifestyle, you may want to reconsider adopting.

 

Renting? Will your lease be up for renewal soon? Will having a pet make a difference to your landlord? Does your landlord allow pets? Does he restrict certain sizes? Certain breeds?The number of animals?

We would not like our pets rescued from shelters to have issues with rental arrangements when adopted. They have been through a lot in their lives, experiencing a lot of bad things already. If your landlord is not allowing pets, please think about it carefully and do not adopt them!

 

Moving? What would happen to your animal if your new community or rental doesn’t allow your dog? Does your community have any breed or number of animal restrictions?

You will have to make yourself familiar with the local rules of your community about keeping pets.

 

Is everyone in your household happy to have a new pet? Are they willing to participate in caring for, feeding, and walking the animal?

Adopting a dog is a long-term commitment, so it’s essential to make the right decision before progressing to the next stage of ownership. The people living with you must be supportive of this decision.  First, you need to consider whether you’ll be able to fulfill their needs, dogs need plenty of exercise, training, mental stimulation and companionship.

 

Think about how a dog will fit into your lifestyle, do you work full-time?

If so, you’ll need your dog to feel comfortable when left at home alone.

 

Will a new dog get on with any other pets you have?

Consider the attributes you need in a dog, for example, whether they need to be good around children or able to travel happily in a car with you. Finding a dog that best suits your lifestyle is a pleasure to own.

Is my home environment suitable? (i.e. Do I have enough space? Do I live in a pet-friendly area? Will a new dog fit in with the dynamic of my current pets?)

 

Do I have any major life changes coming up in the next year? (i.e. moving house, changing careers having children).

 

Am I able to take one or two weeks off work to help my new dog settle in?

 

Do I have the support I need to help settle my new dog in with my family and other pets?

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Are you aware of the costs associated with owning a dog such as suitable dog food, routine vaccinations, worming, flea and tick control, veterinary costs and insurance?

 

Ready to start your adoption journey?

If you feel like you can give your new family member all they need, we are looking forward to receiving your application!

Please fill in an inquiry and our team will get in touch as soon as possible.