Are you extremely active, or do you prefer curling up on the couch with your favorite book or movie? Choosing a pet with the right energy level and behaviors can make all the difference in your happiness with your new friend. If you prefer relaxing and cuddling, an energetic puppy might not be the best match, but an older, mellower dog or a lap cat could be just right! If you’re looking for a running or hiking buddy, you want an energetic dog who is at least 1 year old so they’re ready to hit the trails. Think about what your ideal day would look like with your pet and your family, and start your matchmaking there.

Picture where your new pet will spend time in your home and think about how you will meet their needs. For example, if you adopt a young dog that needs a lot of exercise but you don’t have a yard to play in, you’ll need to plan for daily walks and/or runs to keep everyone happy. A very vocal pet may not be the best choice for people who live in close quarters. If you rent, you’ll want to make sure your landlord is ok with your pet and that you’re aware of any restrictions they have on the size, type, or number of pets you can have, and any fees that may apply.

Are you moving soon, going on vacation, or preparing for another major life change? Do you have a busy life and young children who would need to be constantly supervised with a new animal? Maybe now is not the right time. Pets need routine when they first go home after being in the shelter; it helps them to adapt. Give yourself and your pet the time you need to bond and relax, by making sure the timing is right to bring them home.

Young dogs, cats, and small animals (especially puppies and kittens) need a lot of socialization and playtime to be happy. If you work full time and are not able to come home regularly throughout the day to exercise and play with your pet, consider an older animal who would like sleeping for many hours while you are gone, or a pair of adult cats who would enjoy keeping each other company while you’re away, without getting into mischief.

In addition to food, vaccines, toys and other basic necessities that your pet will need monthly, you will need to be prepared for a potential emergency. Pets can eat things that are dangerous to them, get out and get hit by cars, or unexpectedly fall ill. You should be financially prepared to care for your pet in the event of such an unfortunate situation.

Once you’ve thought about your lifestyle and decided that you are prepared to care for a pet, it’s time to think about what species is best for you. Consider lifespan, exercise and training needs, socialization, and more. Our staff is happy to provide specific needs for each of our animals to ensure they have the right energy level and behavior for your family. If you are looking at a specific animal and breed, do research ahead of time! There are plenty of great articles and books out there about specific breeds and breed mixes.