Are you spending most of your time at home lately? Are you getting bored and maybe a little lonely? Adopting a pet can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. There seems to be a higher than average amount of adoptions lately. First thought is that this is great. But then I have to wonder if this is a phase. You know the type: it’s suitable for the moment because you are home, but it may be too much trouble when you go back to work. How do you know if you are ready to adopt?
Are you ready to commit to a serious relationship
Dogs are a lot of fun, but they’re also a lot of work. It’s essential to be prepared and realistic about the commitment. Adopting a dog means taking on the responsibility of another living creature that entirely depends on you.
It’s not just because you are home right now. Not because you have time on your hands. Definitely not because you are bored. Are you willing and able to provide for this pet throughout their entire life? Many dogs live between 12-16 years. That takes commitment.
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Adopting a dog means taking on the responsibility
of another living creature that entirely depends on you.
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Maybe you have a friend or family member. It might be a dog sitter that comes and spends a little bit of time with them while you are away. Possibly doggy daycare is the route you would like to take. Whichever direction you decide to take, figure this out before getting a new pet.
Where to look
Adopting a pet can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. A shelter has plenty of animals looking for a forever home. There are many rescues that are breed-specific. A Labrador, lucky you. A pomeranian, perfect. Even a labradoodle (Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue). You can also find rescues for senior dogs if you don’t want to go through all of the potty training and teething (Old Friends Senior Dog Rescue). Or, maybe, you can go to your local shelter and find out what dog has been there the longest and provide a loving home. Whatever you can imagine, it is available.
What you get
Unconditional love. A friend for life. A pet will steal your heart. A pet is with you through the good and not so good. A bad day, some warm kisses or hugs will cheer you. Wake up on the wrong side of the bed, a pet can cheer you up. Something to curl up to, a snuggler.
Studies show that a pet increases your happiness. Petting a dog has been proven to lower stress, lower blood pressure, and improve general well-being.
Are you ready to adopt
Only you know if you are ready to adopt. Can you take on the responsibility? Do you have the financial means to do so, especially if you are unable to get back to work soon or have to find another job? Are you able to provide medical care for a routine checkup, spay/neuter or if an illness or injury occur?
Conclusion
There are so many animals looking for forever homes. If you adopt from a shelter or rescue, they are then able to help another animal. But is this the right decision for you right now. With so many changes recently, you have to keep in mind that this is a commitment. It would be unfair and cruel for you to take in a pet while you’re home and then decide that it is more than you could handle and return them or get rid of them a short time later. They do become attached, and it would be heartbreaking for them if this were to happen.
If now is the right time….Congratulations! You can spend time bonding, training, cuddling, and getting to know each other. May this be your new best friend.
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