Have your kids been begging to get a dog? Have you been considering adopting a pet for companionship? Before you head to the shelter to make things official, it is important to decide if now is the right time to get a dog. This isn’t a decision that should be made in haste. Now may be the perfect time, or you may realize that you should wait another six months or a year.
Do You Have the Time?
Dogs require love and attention, especially as they adjust to their new home. You want to spend time with your pet helping them to feel safe and to settle into daily routines. Remember that not only do they need some quality play time, you also have to be available to make sure they are fed, walked, and let out to use restroom throughout the day.
If you know that you have a lot of travel coming up, will be working late, or have other obligations outside the home, it may be better to hold off until things slow down. On the other hand, if your schedule is pretty flexible and you have some time to devote to your new pet, now could be a great time to grow your family.
Do You Have the Money?
Caring for a pet costs money. Outside of adoption fees, don’t forget about food, treats, toys, supplies, grooming, and medical care. What if your dog needs emergency medical treatment? What if you’re going away and need to board them? Make sure you account for pet expenses when figuring out your budget to see how it fits in with your financials.
Do You Have the Space?
How much room do you have for your new dog to roam and play? Consider space when deciding what breed to get. If you live in a small home or apartment, you might want a smaller dog that is lower energy. If you have a larger home or apartment, you may be able to accommodate a larger dog that is more active. Think about green space around your home too. Do you have a spacious yard? Is there a dog park nearby or open grass for your dog to run and play?
Is Everyone on Board?
Adopting a dog should be a family decision. Make sure everyone agrees that they want a pet and are willing to be responsible in caring for it. If one parent is for it, and one against, take the time to talk things through and decide if now is a good time to bring home a new dog. Do you already have other pets at home? How would they respond to a new animal?
Have You Done Your Research?
Be proactive and do your homework. Research different breeds to learn about their personality, needs, and lifestyle. Figure out what type of dog might be a good fit for your family. Think about whether you want a rambunctious puppy that you will have for years to come, an adult dog that may already be trained and housebroken, or an older dog that is looking for a loving home to live out the rest of its life. It can be a great idea to talk to the shelter staff and learn more about the pets they have available so they can help you find the dog that’s right for you.
Once you bring your new dog home, keep them looking and smelling their best by scheduling regular grooming appointments at Lake Wylie Pet Resort. If you’re heading out of town, sign them up for boarding as well, where they can socialize and play safely while you are away. Contact us today to reserve your dog’s spot.