Adopting a dog is a life-changing decision, but one that can bring great love and joy to your life. To help you decide if you’re ready to adopt a dog, we’ve put together information on caregiver responsibilities and considerations before adopting!
How does adopting a dog impact your life?
By adopting a dog, you gain a loving companion who greets your homecomings with joyful abandon (regardless if you were gone five minutes or five hours), an eager partner to join you on every adventure (whether it’s placing your recycling at the curb or visiting a park), and an inspirational sidekick who lives each moment to the fullest.
Adoption also changes some of the people in your life (dogs attract new friends!), your activity level (lace up those walking shoes), your schedule (dogs need companionship and can’t be left alone for long hours) and your spending habits. As you consider whether you are ready to adopt, keep in mind the commitment and responsibilities involved.
General considerations
Dogs need regular exercise and should be walked two or three times a day (the backyard does not provide enough exercise, stimulation or fun). Some dogs also require vigorous exercise.
If your dog hasn’t been trained, you may need to attend training classes to help you understand your dog and develop a clear and consistent way of communicating.
Dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and clean. You will need to do this yourself or take your dog to a groomer. Cost per year depends on the breed and frequency.
Dogs require regular nail trimming and teeth brushing (note: there is special toothpaste available at pet stores that is safe for dogs).
Dogs need and crave companionship and require lots of time with their family.
The cost of adopting a dog is only the initial expense. You will need to provide food, identification (dog tags and licensing your pet); ongoing veterinary care, including vaccinations and routine health care, and supplies, such as food, dishes, toys and grooming tools.
You’ll also need to be prepared to puppy/dog proof your home. Before bringing home a dog it’s important to have a safe space in your home for the dog to reside when you’re away from the house. This space will help them get comfortable until they’re ready to safely roam free in the house without supervision.
With all of this in mind, dogs bring joy, comfort, and companionship to our lives, helping us stay healthier and better able to handle life’s challenges!
Now what?
If you are convinced that you are ready for a dog in your life, please visit our website to see animals available for adoption. Animal centre staff will guide you through every step of finding your special friend – one that is just right for you.
If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.
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