Adoption Prep Guide

The Ins and Outs of Adopting a Shelter Pet

10 Things to Consider Before Adopting a Pet:

1. Commitment and Responsibility: Ensure you're ready for a long-term commitment to caring for a pet. Consider the lifespan of the animal and whether you can consistently meet their needs for food, health and emotional care. 

2. Evaluate Your Lifestyle: Think about your daily routine, activity level and space at home. Consider what characteristics (size, energy, temperament) would suit your lifestyle and home environment. Adopting a puppy is a rewarding experience, but it requires time, dedication and patience to raise them properly. Puppies need consistent training and care as they grow. On the other hand, adult dogs typically have more established personalities and often exhibit a calmer, more manageable energy level. However, just like people, every dog is unique, with its own individual traits and quirks.  

3. Financial Investment: Pets come with ongoing costs, including veterinary care, grooming, food and accessories. Be prepared for both expected and unexpected expenses. Although, when you adopt a pet from FWACC, the animal has been examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated, spayed or neutered and is already microchipped, which also saves on costs.  

4. Compatibility with Other Pets: If you already have other pets, assess how well they might interact with a new pet. If possible, introduce them before adoption to ensure compatibility. 

5. Home and Family Readiness: Ensure your home is pet-friendly and that everyone in your household is on board with the decision. Take into account factors like available space, safety and who will be responsible for daily care. One of the first steps is to purchase essential items, including a collar, leash, dog bed, treats, and food and water bowls to help your new pet feel at home.  

6. Patience for the Adjustment Period: Understand that pets need time to acclimate to their new home. Be patient and allow them the space to settle in without overwhelming them. 

7. Don’t Settle for the First Option: Finding the right pet may take time. Be open-minded and willing to wait for a pet that truly fits your home and lifestyle, rather than rushing into the first option. 

8. Time and Attention Needs: Consider the amount of time and attention your new pet will require. Make sure you can offer daily companionship, exercise and mental stimulation, especially for social or active breeds. 

9. Training and Behavior Management: Be ready to invest time in training your pet, especially puppies or newly adopted animals. Behavior management is crucial for a successful pet-owner relationship. 

10. Emotional Fulfillment and Satisfaction: Lastly, know that adopting a pet brings a sense of fulfillment and joy. Providing a loving home to an animal in need can be one of the most rewarding experiences. 

Fort Worth Animal Care & Control offers Responsible Pet Ownership Classes. You can find more details here. 

Explore Adoptable Animals at FWACC

Discover a wide range of lovable animals available for adoption at Fort Worth Animal Care & Control. Visit our Adoptions Page for the full list of pets waiting for a forever home.

Adoptable Pets

Supporting Pet Parents Every Step of the Way