Deciding to purchase a pet can be overwhelming. There are so many factors to consider, such as type, size, price, and long term costs.
But this isn’t about anything more than getting a perfect pet at a perfect price. This of course, assumes that you have already decided what type of pet you might like.
So how do you get the prefect pet for the perfect price? Easy. Visit your local Humane Society or pet adoption center. Their costs are much cheaper than pet stores and they don’t pull animals from puppy mills. In addition many extra things are included in your adoption price. See below for more information.
Most people think that you can only get a cat or dog from these places, but that isn’t true. Many of them service hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets (check your local laws), fish, snakes and other reptiles. Some even have access to livestock and horses that are kept at a larger farm. And of course, there are dogs, cats, puppies and kittens always available. If you are looking for a particular type of pet, and it is not available, place your name on a list and they will call you when one is.
So, once you’ve decided what type of pet you want, it’s time to visit the Humane Society or pet adoption center and get started.
For us, it was a cat. I set the rules before we went. First, everyone had to agree on the pet or it wasn’t coming home. And two, we were not bringing home a kitten. Nothing under six months of age.
See that sweet face over there on the left? Yep, that’s our four month old kitten we just adopted. So much for mom’s rule! Her name is Maple and she is the newest addition to our family.
Choosing our cat was harder that we anticipated, but of course that is because there were five kids I felt needed to agree on one pet. That in itself was difficult to say the very least! In fact, it’s the only reason that I broke my own rule and this little girl was an easy choice, they quickly agreed. So Maple has joined our family and she’s wonderful.
Be sure and ask to play with the animal you are considering before actually signing the papers. They have rooms available for you to visit with a couple of them to make your decision making a little easier. Look for pets that show no signs of health issues, are interested in you or other members in the room, and that show no signs of aggressiveness. Typically the center has already done that for you, but just be sure while you are playing.
Once you have decided on your pet, your adoption fee will be due. This runs anywhere from $25.00-$50.00 for kittens and cats, and $35.00-75.00 for puppies and dogs.
The best part of getting your pet from a Humane Society or Pet Adoption facility is that their adoption fee includes one set of shots, a spay or neuter and your new pet. Often times, these places contract with various veterinarians and animal hospitals in the area and allow you to bring your pet in for one free visit. These typically include a well-pet exam and a stool analysis.
No matter where you get your pet from, or what type of pet you choose, be sure that it is a commitment you are willing to make. Don’t bring a pet home if you don’t see that pet with your family for 10 or more years!
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