October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month
10 tips to pick the right pet for you
SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY
If you have ever thought about becoming a "Pet Parent", this month is the perfect time for you to seriously consider expanding your family. October is Adopt-A-Shelter- Dog Month, a time where the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals urges people to adopt unwanted dogs from local animal shelters across the country. This is a golden opportunity to not only help an unwanted dog find a home, but begin a rewarding relationship with your newest family member.
While everyone knows how easy it is for a playful puppy to melt your heart you shouldn't choose a dog based on sheer impulse. While shelter workers do want you to take home a pet, they don't want you to choose the wrong pet for your personality, lifestyle and/or home environment. They want the adoption to be a lifetime relationship between you and your new dog, which is why it's critical to understand the responsibilities of pet parenthood. Lack of foresight is one of the top reasons an estimated 6 to 8 million unwanted pets end up at animal shelters each year and 3 to 4 million are euthanized.
Before you visit your local animal shelter it's a good idea to make an honest assessment of what type of home you'll provide for your new family member. Dr. Diane Pomerance, author of the new book, "Pet Parenthood: Adopting the Right Animal Companion For You," is a bona fide animal lover. She has come up with 10 questions to ask yourself in order to help you choose the perfect dog:
1. How will adopting a dog change my life and daily routine?
2. Do I have enough space for the type of dog I want?
3. Do I have enough time to play with and exercise an animal?
4. Can I handle cleaning up after a dog?
5. Does the dog realistically fit my lifestyle? (do I work long shifts, do I travel a lot, etc)
6. If I already have pets, will it be a problem introducing a new animal into the family?
7. If I have children, are they mature enough to treat the puppy humanely?
8. Is the dog's temperament suited to being around children?
9. Do I understand the costs involved in caring for my dog?
10. If I become seriously ill or die, who will care for my dog?
Pomerance stresses that pet adoption is a lifetime commitment and responsibility that requires much thought and planning. "They are basically bringing a child into their home," says Dr. Pomerance. "A child who needs plenty of attention, an abundance of patience and a lot of time. If you don't have the schedule, temperament, or space requirements to meet their needs, consider a pet that does fit your lifestyle."
Another important factor is the financial obligation of pet ownership. "No one likes to put a price tag on the love and dedication of a beloved companion- which is what you want your pet to become," says Dr. Pomerance. "But the reality is, dogs can be expensive and time intensive. So it is important to understand the costs and responsibilities ahead of time when choosing your dog. Being a pet parent is not an easy job, but one that is truly joyful, rewarding and gratifying."
