Almost no one adopts a dog from a local shelter with the intention of returning the dog. Doing this is many cases is traumatic for the dog, and can be for the family as well. Would you like to ensure the dog you adopt from your local shelter will be the right fit for your family? Follow these tips when adopting your new family member.
- Plan to come at least an hour or more before closing. It takes time select your new best friend, and several minutes fill out the necessary paperwork and process an adoption.
- Visits with dogs typically end one-half hour before closing each day (please contact the shelter for their hours and policies).
- The shelter can be very crowded at certain points throughout the day so please be patient as you may have to wait to see the dog you've chosen. Plan to come in early and allow a little extra time if you want to take the dog home that same day.
- Many shelters also take dogs out of the shelter to various adoption events. If you are going to meet one particular dog, you may want to call ahead first just to make sure the dog is at the shelter, and not out at an event.
- Bring ALL FAMILY MEMBERS along to meet the dog you are considering for adoption---this includes all kids. Your new dog will be part of the family. You will want to make sure it gets along well with everyone else who lives in the household.
- Once you have decided on a dog, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you bring in any existing dogs you have in the home to meet the new dog before finalizing your adoption. Shelters typically have several "get acquainted areas" where the dogs can meet. Most shelters also have cats who live there, so if your household includes cats you can most likely introduce the dog you've chosen to a cat.
- Bringing along copies of your present or previous dogs' vet records, shots, etc. will speed up your new adoption process.
- If you rent, bring along a copy of your lease showing that dogs are permitted and any breed or weight restrictions, or your landlord's phone number.
- Bring your wallet and a photo ID!
