April 30th is Adopt A Shelter Pet Day! If you’re ready to bring a new animal companion into your home, please consider giving a shelter pet a second chance at happiness. There are just far too many sweet, lovable dogs and cats in shelters, desperately hoping someone will adopt them. A Matthews, NC vet offers some adoption tips below.
Be Prepared To Commit
Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment, and definitely not something that you should take lightly. Before moving forward, make sure that you are ready, willing, and able to care for your new pet for the rest of their life. Our animal companions get very depressed and traumatized when they are rehomed. It would be very sad for them to go through that again.
Open Your Heart
Sometimes, people only have to take one look at a furry face to know they’ve found their new pet. That said, picking the right dog or cat can be tough. Take your time deciding, and spend some time with your new pal. Adoption is forever, so you want to be sure that you’re making the right choice.
Don’t Overlook Less-Adoptable Pets
We know, kittens and puppies are irresistibly cute. However, they’re also a handful! Don’t overlook older pets. Dogs and cats in their golden years are often quite sweet and calm. Of course, the pets that have the most trouble getting adopted are the specially-abled ones. Open your heart, and consider giving one of these lovable dogs or cats a great forever home.
Meet The Doctor
One of the first things you’ll want to do is introduce your dog or cat to their new vet. A thorough exam is definitely in order. You’ll also need to make sure your new buddy is fixed, microchipped, and current on their vaccinations and parasite control. This is a great time to get some specific advice on your pet’s diet and care needs!
Settling In
Going to a new home is a big deal for our furry pals. Some pets will immediately make themselves at home, while others will need time to adjust. Give your new friend space to settle in. Toys, treats, playtime, and great TLC will get you purrs or tail wags in no time!
Please contact us, your Matthews, NC vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!