Things to Consider Before Adopting a Dog
Selecting a family rescue dog to adopt should be well-researched and a carefully soul-searched activity. Are you and your family willing to make a long-term commitment, anything up to maybe 15 years, to this sentient; in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer, for as long as all shall live? Let’s pose some of the questions family members should discuss before adopting a dog.
Research
Ask questions and research your chosen breed – have you had this breed before? Would you prefer a dog or a bitch to fit into your current family environment? Would you prefer a younger dog or maybe a golden oldie? Would you consider a dog with behavioral issues or maybe an ongoing illness?
There is a huge amount of information available to you on the Internet in respect of breed and dog ownership. Please contact your vet or HOTS Dobermann dog rescue for advice.
How old are the members of my family?
If the youngsters in your household are under seven years old, they are usually not developmentally suited for puppies up to 6 months old. Puppies have ultra-sharp “milk teeth” and toenails and often teethe on and scratch children, resulting in unintentional injury to the child. The puppy becomes something to be feared rather than loved.
All interactions between small children and dogs should be monitored by a responsible adult. When there is no one to watch over them, they should be separated.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, are there frail elderly or physically challenged individuals in the household...If so, strong vigorous adolescent dogs are not a wise idea. The new dog must fit the current physical capabilities of its keepers with an eye toward what the next 10-15 years will bring.
Who will be the dogs primary caretaker?
One adult should be designated primary caretaker to ensure that the dog is cared for.
Choosing the family dog should include input from all family members with the more experienced family members’ opinions carrying a bit more weight, this selection experience is one the entire family can share.
What is the cost?
After the initial donation for adoption, please do consider the cost of adopting a dog.
There will be the following costs incurred:
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Food – Please research the best quality food that is suitable for your dog and that it fits within your budget.
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Grooming – if required.
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Safe toys – they love to play with you!
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Safe chewing items – all dogs need to chew – especially puppies during teething.
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Outerwear for the cold seasons – warm raincoats, jumpers etc.
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Miscellaneous supplies - bowls, beds, brushes, shampoos, flea products, odor neutralizers for accidents, baby gates, leads, collars, harnesses, crates, heartworm preventative etc.
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Veterinary care and emergencies! Very few dogs live their entire lives without at least one accident.
What is the commitment?
How much time and energy can you spend on a new dog? Various breeds and ages of dog make different demands on our precious spare time. A puppy or adolescent will need more exercise, training, and supervision than will an adult dog. The first year with any new dog regardless of age or breed type will put more demands on the owner than any other time, for this is when you are setting up house rules and routines which will last for the lifetime of your dog.
There are so many disposable pet owners - doesn’t your family dog deserve better? Choose wisely, for when the bond breaks, everybody concerned suffers. Make selecting your new family dog a life-affirming act.
Hots Doberman Dog Rescue!
We are here for you every step of the Adoption process and offer full lifetime backup of your chosen Adopted dog. If you need any help with any subject, please do not hesitate to contact us – we are here for you and your new family member!
Thank you for choosing HOTS Doberman Dog Rescue – saving precious lives of dogs and helping Dobie’s in Need.