How to Adopt a Dog or Cat: Every Question Answered Pet Adoption Made Easy!

Would you like to adopt a dog or a cat? Pet adoption can be immensely rewarding, but it is also a great deal of responsibility. It is important to remember that, while pets can be adopted very quickly, the commitment is for the life of the pet, which can be 10 to 20 years (or more). Before you make the big decision to adopt a cat or a dog, consider the responsibilities involved in adopting, and some of the changes that may occur after you adopt a pet.

9 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU ADOPT A CAT

While, in general, cats are fairly independent, and might require less of your time than dogs, when you adopt a cat you are still assuming the responsibility for the life on a creature that needs attention and care. From finding a cat with the best temperament for you, to learning about their medical history, make sure you know these nine questions to ask before you take the big first step of adopting a cat.

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN YOU ADOPT A DOG

How will your newly adopted dog fit into your life? Do you have precious furniture that can’t stand up to doggy slobber? Long or unpredictable hours at work? From considerations about your lifestyle, to seeing if the shelter can help you spay and neuter, find out the right questions to ask yourself before you adopt a dog.

HOW TO ADOPT A SHELTER CAT

Although it can be fairly easy to adopt a cat from a shelter, you may need some documentation on hand. And then, of course, there’s bringing the kitty home. Find out how the process of adopting a cat from a shelter works and what you can do to better prepare yourself.

ADOPTING A DOG FROM A SHELTER

Planning on adopting a dog from a shelter? You should know that it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get a puppy, and that older dogs can sometimes make for more reliable, “what you see is what you get,” pets. Find out what else to expect when adopting a dog from a shelter.

THE BENEFITS OF SPAYING AND NEUTERING

Once you’ve adopted a new cat or dog, it’s important for you to get them spayed or neutered. Doing this provides ample health benefits and prevents more pets from winding up in a shelter. Find out more reasons why spaying and neutering your pet is so vital.

WHAT VACCINES DO PUPPIES NEED?

Discover the specific vaccines puppies need, as well as the timing required for these shots. Getting your dog vaccinated will protect them and the other dogs they come into contact with. Learn more about vaccinating your puppy here.

WHAT VACCINES DO KITTENS NEED?

Find out the core vaccinations recommended for kittens, and get details on the timing for these vaccinations. Vaccines will help prevent your adopted cat from contracting certain diseases or conditions.

HOW TO AVOID PUPPY MILLS WHEN YOU ADOPT A DOG

Why is it so important to stay away from puppy mills? As well as being grossly inhumane, puppy mills tend to churn out unhealthy dogs. And any dog purchased from a puppy mill is one less dog rescued from a shelter. Find out more reasons to avoid puppy mills -- and how to recognize them.

HOW TO BRING HOME YOUR NEWLY ADOPTED PET

Be sure to read this article before you adopt or bring home a new pet. From bonding with your new cat or dog to getting them the required health care, you’ll learn what to expect. Learn how to introduce your pet to your new home without it being a traumatic experience for your cat or dog -- or you!

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