Before You Consider Adoption

When you adopt a pet from the HBSPCA you’re making a real difference in an animal’s life. But responsible pet ownership goes well beyond signing the papers at the shelter. Are you ready? Answer these questions first.

1) What are your time constraints? Even smaller pets such as guinea pigs and rabbits require daily interaction to stay healthy and happy. All companion animals also benefit from training—it helps to teach them how to interact with people, and in some cases, other animals. Do you have the time for your pet right now? How about in the future?

2) Are you able to afford the costs of pet care? The Calgary Humane Society estimates the average cost to own a dog is $1,550 a year. The average cat costs $800 a year. This doesn’t include one-time costs to adopt the animal or emergency vet care.

3) How will this pet fit with your lifestyle and health? Are you a couch potato? Are you an active outdoorsy type? Are you away from home a lot? Do you have young children? Does anyone in your family have allergies? Different breeds have different needs—plan ahead to make sure theirs fit with yours.

4) What’s down the road for you? Some dogs and cats can live for 20 years or more, while a parrot can live longer than a person. Think about the changes you can expect over the life of your pet, including moving, having children and returning to school. How will your pet fit in over the long term?

5) Where do you live? Large breed and high-energy animals require space to run—do you have a fenced yard? If you’re renting, will you move frequently? How does your landlord feel about pets?

6) Do you have a reliable back-up? What will you do with your pet when you go on vacation or if an emergency arises? Do you have a reliable boarding kennel, friend or relative that can care for your pet in these situations?

7) Will you follow the rules? Hamilton and Burlington have bylaws designed to keep both animals and people safe. Can you agree to abide by these municipal laws?

8) Why do you want a pet? Consider your motivations and whether a pet can accomplish your goals. Trying to teach responsibility to your children? A child should be seven years old before being expected to actively care for a pet. But remember, a family pet is a family responsibility—a child can’t be expected to take on all the pet care duties.

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