| Are you considering adopting a shelter dog? Millions of | | | | 6. If the dog is a mix, try to find out what type. This |
| shelter dogs are euthanized each year because there | | | | could effect their behavior and how much they will |
| are simply not enough homes. You are doing a noble | | | | grow. |
| thing! | | | | 7. If you are willing to take an older dog, take him. |
| Shelter dogs can be the best dogs in the world- but | | | | They get adopted the least. There are many people |
| there are things you need to consider when making | | | | willing to take puppies... if you can take an older dog, |
| this decision. | | | | please do. They will need extra love and training... but |
| 1. Can you care for a dog? Having a puppy is like | | | | they will be so grateful to you and will return the |
| having a baby. Its almost a 24 hour a day job. You | | | | love. |
| will lose sleep. | | | | 8. Consider that most shelters will not adopt the dog |
| 2. Do you have the financial resources to care for a | | | | unless they have sterilized it prior to giving it to you. |
| dog? Adoption fees... shots... | | | | If you are in this for dog breeding, shelters are not |
| food...grooming...toys...kennel... leash/collar...identification... | | | | an option. |
| 3. Do you have a backyard? If not, can you walk | | | | 9. Play with the dog for an hour or two before you |
| your dog every day? Are you allowed to even have | | | | take it home. Make sure it is not aggressive and will |
| pets at your house? | | | | be suitable for your family. |
| 4. If you can deal with the 3 things listed above, | | | | 10. Remember that this dog needs you. In most |
| continue reading. You should spend a lot of time | | | | cases, the shelter has no idea what the dog has |
| deciding on a dog. There is normally a behavior | | | | been through in it's lifetime. It could have had a |
| specialist at animal shelters, and they can help you | | | | traumatic experience. It could have just been |
| and tell you about particular dogs. | | | | someone's pet they had to give up. Take this in to |
| 5. If you have family members that will be living with | | | | consideration. BE PATIENT. Most dogs will come |
| the pet, take them with you to pick it out. You need | | | | around in time when it comes to behavior and |
| to make sure they will get along. Some dogs don't | | | | affection. |
| like young children... take that into consideration. | | | | |