Pet Adoption & Buying Guidlines

It is up to you, the buyer or adopter, to make sure you do your due diligence when acquiring a new pet. Ask as many questions as possible to get to know the pet, its needs, and its environment beforehand. This will make for you to have a most enjoyable life with your new pet.

Below is a list of guidelines that you and your family should consider when either adopting or purchasing a new pet for your home. If you feel there is anything missing from this list, plese contact us and let us know.

  1. References
    Can the breeder, shelter or store provide you with recent references of others that acquired a pet through them? Ask appropriate questions of this referral.
  2. Interaction
    Are there other pets in the house or around where you live? How will they interact with the new pet?
  3. Environment
    Is the new home an appropriate place for the new pet and its needs?
    Pet Friendly Apartment Guide
  4. Time
    Do you and your family have enough time to spend with your new pet? Are you aware of its time needs?
  5. Needs
    Are you aware of the needs of this pet: grooming, diet, exercise, health, social, etc.?
  6. Others
    Are the other people in the house ok with this new pet and having it around?
  7. Lifestyle
    Does the breed/species of this new pet fit with your current lifestyle? Can you accomodate the lifestyle that this animal/breed is required? Example: Do you want a young an energetic pet, or an older and more relaxed pet?
  8. Responsiblity
    Is there someone who has planned to take on full responsibility for this new pet? This will usually happen, even if unplanned. Better to make sure all parties are aware.
  9. Training
    For animals such as dogs, they could require certain amount of training, especially if getting them at a young age. Do you have time for this?
  10. Children
    Do you have young children, toddlers or babies around? Is this new pet a good fit for this environment? Can it be trusted?
  11. Size
    Animals and breeds come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure you pick one that will grow to an acceptable size for its environment and your living conditions.
  12. Costs
    All pets will require expected and unexpected costs. Make sure your budget can handle all of this. Do your research and plan out what a typical month would look like in terms of cost. Here are some things to consider: food, veterinary care, licensing, accessories (collars, leashes, tags, toys, etc), grooming, training, carriers, house, accidents and illnesses, etc.
  13. Facility
    Where are the pets raised? Can you view the breeding or adoption facility? What does it looks like? What kind of shape is it in? How many animals are there? Do the other animals appear to be in good health and cared for?
  14. Medical
    Are there any medical conditions that are common for this animal or breed?
  15. Quantity
    If dealing with breeders, its good to know how many litters and pets they raise/sell each year. Use your best judgement and avoid puppy mill types. You want to make sure you work with respectable breeders that care for and have the pets/animals best interest in mind. Not just to try to make quick money with a sell.