Animals bring so much good into our lives every day. Their very presence at home has a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Thanks to being with pets, we can handle stressful situations better, have lower blood pressure and higher concentration of relaxation hormones. Our self-esteem also grows and we learn empathy, which is so important in life.

Unfortunately, not all animals are lucky enough to have a human to love. Adopting a dog or cat is a very responsible decision and should be carefully considered. That's why today we advise you on what to think about before adopting a pet and how to prepare for welcoming a new family member.

Before adoption

When we want a four-legged family member to live in our home, we need to consider several important issues and make sure that all members of the household are aware of their respective responsibilities. So it's worth starting by asking ourselves a few important questions...

How much time can I devote to the care and hygiene of my pet?

Does my budget include fees and expenses related to the pet - food, accessories, prevention - as well as unplanned expenses - for example, treatment?

Do I know someone who will care for an animal in case of unforeseen events?

Such an analysis will help us avoid many unpleasant situations and we will check whether we are really ready to take responsibility for our four-legged friend. It is worth discussing with your family whether everyone agrees on the type of animal and shared responsibility - walks, games, care.

During the search

Once we're sure we're ready to adopt, it's time to start looking. The best place to start is to talk to a volunteer from a shelter or foundation. They know animals best and will therefore help us find the ideal four-legged companion whose character, activity level and needs will be tailored to our capabilities, previous experience with animals and lifestyle.

When choosing a pet, we should not only look at its appearance. Their temperament, energy levels, habits, potential behavioral problems are far more important than coat size or color.

The adoption process can seem complicated, there are many questions - but let's not forget that the goal is to create a perfect relationship between a person and a pet. That is why we should not be afraid of detailed questions asked by the volunteers of an organization - they only serve to better connect the animal with its future owners.

If we've found the perfect dog or cat for us, what's next?

We must remember that our home is a completely new environment for the animal and it will take some time for it to adapt. It is worth securing objects and places that may be particularly vulnerable to being chewed or scratched or dangerous (eg power cables). For an animal to be happy, all its needs must be met - including behavioral needs such as chewing, sniffing, movement and rest. It is extremely important to provide the animal not only with physical exercise, but also with mental training. Properly selected treats, toys and time spent together will make our pet happy and we will feel confident in his well-being.

Responsible adoption is a well-thought-out decision that takes into account many factors, both regarding the animal itself and the lifestyle, needs and expectations of the household members. At the same time, it is the beginning of an exciting adventure for both the owner and the four-legged member of the family.

Author: Desislava Zheleva ProDogTrainer