What should be considered when adopting a dog? Where and how can a reliable animal be obtained? Many persons choose a dog based on what feels right. The following are some suggestions on how the owner can prevail by being thoughtful.
Advantages of the Adult Dog Versus the Puppy
Adult dogs are generally easier to housetrain. Housebreaking a puppy can be a complex process. Most adult canines, however, are either already housebroken or catch on quickly.
Another advantage of the mature canine: The chewing phase is usually over. Adult dogs that still chew are often in need of exercise or possibly a dietary modification.
Costs of Dog Ownership
Naturally, food and healthcare are major considerations for the future. How much food will the perspective newcomer to the family require? Many dogs are overfed, but it still requires thoughtful preparation to ensure maximum health benefits.
Although adult dogs have moved beyond the puppy vaccination era, they still need annual checkups and certain vaccinations (such as the rabies vaccine) for the rest of their lives. Money set aside for emergencies is obviously not a bad idea either. Some adult dogs do need training, and competent training and behavioral consultants do not come cheap.
Will the owner require the services of a pet sitter? Regular use of a pet sitter adds up, but as most will attest, the peace of mind is worth it. The monetary considerations of dog ownership are important and necessary. Failure to think these things through will result in some unpleasant surprises.
Where to Get an Adult Dog
There are many sources for adopting a dog. In recent years rescue shelters have become popular places to get a dog. This is a fortunate response to universal calls for help from nonprofits and government agencies that realize the need for adoption of surrendered canines. Breed-specific rescue leagues are another source.
Catastrophic adoptions, such as those during Hurricane Katrina, are another fine way to obtain a dog. And of course there are friends. From time to time people need to give up their dog, even when they don't want to. A good friend with the means and the time can be the best answer.
An adult dog may be a better match than a puppy. It sometimes carries "less baggage" than a pup. Even though pups require a lot of attention, the adult dog still needs love and companionship. It also needs proper healthcare that must be budgeted for, and any issues such as behavior problems or pet sitting concerns will need to be addressed.
There are plenty of reliable places from which to obtain a dog. A thoughtful consideration of the source, as well as identifying the reasons for wanting a dog, will keep the new owner on the right track.
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