Saturday, April 2, 2011

What You Need To Know About Adopting An Adult Dog Or Puppy

By Chris Station


At some point, almost any dog lover may have tossed around the idea of adopting an adult dog or a puppy. For some, it's a chance to get a pet at a reasonable price. But for others it's more the idea of potentially rescuing a dog and then being able to give him a good home.

There are so many dogs available for adoption, but mostly these are mixed breed dogs. It's quite rare that a pure bred dog is put up for adoption, except in special circumstances.

If you're on the lookout for a dog to share your home and your heart and to be a companion for you, then adopting is a wonderful way to find that special dog. The first place most people check is the local animal shelter. And this is a perfect place to start.

If you decide to look at your community's animal shelter, it will likely be harder to find a puppy than an adult dog. Puppies are snapped up right away.

One very good thing about adopting a dog at a shelter is that there won't have any health surprises. All animals must be checked by a veterinarian.

By adopting a dog from the shelter you may be saving his life. There are far more animals available than can ever be adopted out. For the animals that aren't adopted, the fact is that euthanasia may lie ahead.

It's much easier to find a puppy by being on the lookout for signs on front lawns or notices in the local newspaper. Ask friends to keep their eyes open may also work. Or you could also get in touch with the local veterinarian's office. They often have clients who post notices about pets available to be adopted.

Know that "free" puppies aren't really free. Most free puppies won't have had the complete series of shots, so a visit to the vet will have to be made, to get those shots as well as for a checkup.

Although many people are reluctant to adopt an adult dog, these animals are often a great option. Not all adult dogs go to the shelter because they're problem dogs. Sometimes circumstances change and their owners are forced to give them up.

Before you decide that you're going to take on an adult dog, try to find out as much information as you can about his past situation. When there is no information, it might pay to be cautious. But lack of information doesn't necessarily prove anything.

However, if the past owner had to move or couldn't continue to care for their pet, you probably have located a winner.

If you are thinking of getting a dog, why not consider adopting one? There are lots of puppies and adult dogs both who need a warm caring family. You'll find it to be a wonderful experience.




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