Please remember: Adoption is for life

Long-haired dogs and cats need regular grooming, whether done at home or by a professional. Keep in mind that grooming can be time-intensive and may also add extra costs.

Think about whether your space and lifestyle are suited for a large-breed dog. Do you have enough room at home, in your yard, and in your vehicle? Can you safely manage a big dog’s strength and energy? Are there any health or mobility challenges that might make daily care or exercise difficult?

Budget is another important factor. Large dogs typically eat much more, which means higher food costs. Pets with long coats—or breeds that don’t shed—often need regular grooming, which can add to your expenses.

Family & Lifestyle Considerations

• Children & Special Needs: Some breeds, like border collies, have very high energy levels and need lots of exercise and attention. Young children can also affect your choice—large or energetic dogs may accidentally knock them over while playing. Always supervise children and pets together.

• Family Agreement: Make sure everyone in the household is on board with the decision to adopt. Sadly, many pets end up in shelters because not all family members were prepared or willing to care for them.

• Allergies: Spend time around different animals before adopting. Even pets labeled “hypoallergenic” can still trigger allergies, since both cats and dogs produce dander.

• Other Pets: If you already have pets, consider how they react to new animals. Compatibility is important, and you may need patience and effort to ensure a smooth transition.

Think about your schedule. If you travel often or your household is usually on the go, a pet may end up spending too much time alone. Animals need companionship, care, and interaction—if no one is home for much of the day, it may not be the right time to adopt.

Kittens and puppies may be adorable, but they require a lot of time, patience, and training. If that’s not the right fit for you, consider adopting an adult dog or cat. Grown pets are just as loving and often settle in quickly, forming strong bonds with their new families.

If you’re renting or living in student housing, remember that some places don’t allow pets, while others may only permit cats or small dogs. There are often limits on the number of pets, too. The same applies when traveling—finding pet-friendly accommodations is generally easier with smaller pets than with larger breeds.

Dogs generally need more time and attention than cats. While cats make great companions for people with busy schedules, dogs require daily walks, regular bathroom breaks, training, and plenty of exercise and interaction. Be sure to consider the level of care and commitment each pet requires before deciding.

Choose a pet that matches your lifestyle. If your family enjoys hiking and outdoor adventures, an active dog may be the perfect companion. If you prefer relaxing at home, a cat or a low-energy dog might be a better fit.

Please don’t adopt a pet as a surprise gift. Sadly, many pets end up in shelters because the recipient wasn’t ready or didn’t want the responsibility. Pets have feelings too, and being surrendered is stressful and confusing for them.

If you’d like to give a pet as a gift, involve the recipient in the process. Bring them along to choose the right companion, or consider a “pet adoption gift certificate” so they can adopt when the time is right.