Adopting a Pet From an Animal Shelter? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Across the country, local animal shelters provide refuge for countless pets eager to find a loving home and a family like yours. That being said, adopting a pet is a decision that cannot be made lightly and requires careful preparation. That’s why we’ve assembled a comprehensive list detailing everything you need to know and prepare before bringing home your new best friend. From understanding the responsibilities of pet ownership to ensuring your home is pet-friendly, the following tips will help support you in this significant, yet rewarding decision.

Pick a Pet for Your Lifestyle

Now that you’ve decided to welcome a pet into your family, it’s important to consider which type of pet best aligns with your lifestyle. First, assess your home and its available space, as some pets need more room than others. Dogs, for instance, may need a yard or outdoor area to roam, while smaller animals like rabbits, hamsters, or guinea pigs typically require no more than a hutch or open enclosure. Cats like to roam free, so if you have the necessary space and resources, a “catio” can provide your feline friend with a stimulating, yet protected environment.

It’s also important to evaluate the amount of time you spend away from home, as different pets require varying levels of companionship. Dogs, for example, are social animals and thrive among their humans, so if you work long hours or travel frequently, a more independent cat may be a better choice.

Identify Nearby Shelters

To begin your adoption journey, check online for a list of local animal shelters. The Humane Society and the ASPCA have tools on their website that allow you to search for shelters in your area. Many have online databases with photos of available pets, making it easier to browse and narrow down all the adorable options.

Once you’ve identified some potential candidates, it’s important to visit the shelter in person to meet your future pet and ensure compatibility. Consider spending time volunteering at one or more shelters, as it will allow you to interact with various animals and develop lasting connections. Through volunteering, you'll also have the opportunity to observe different behaviors and personalities, helping you to make a more informed decision when picking your own furry friend.

Prepare for Your New Pet’s Arrival

To ensure your little friend’s safety and well-being, it's essential to pet-proof your space. For starters, look into products that have been created with your pet’s specific needs in mind. For dogs, essentials include a comfortable bed, quality food, treats for training, and a reliable leash. Cats also need a cozy place to sleep, nutritious food, and perhaps even a scratching board to satisfy their natural instincts. If your pet has unique dietary restrictions, speak to a vet to create a meal plan.

Investing in a Pet Tag and setting up a Pet Profile on the Neighbors App can provide an extra level of security. This will facilitate instant access to your pet’s information through a QR scan and enable you to generate a Lost Pet post in case of an emergency. Meanwhile, an Indoor Cam can help you keep an eye on your pet from afar and even communicate with them via Two-Way Talk.

Securing pet insurance is another thing to consider. Finding the right insurance plan tailored to your pet's needs ensures financial protection and peace of mind for you and your furry companion. Plus, some employers offer pet coverage as part of their employee benefit packages.

Determine a Routine

Once you’ve adopted a pet from a local shelter, you can turn to the shelter’s various resources for help creating a suitable routine, which is critical in helping a pet acclimate to their new environment. Puppies, for instance, require more frequent meals than adult dogs, so working with your pet’s previous caretakers to align their feeding schedule with your own can simplify the process. Creating a sleep schedule is equally important, and implementing strategies like dimming the lights, playing brown noise, or putting on soothing music can help encourage better sleep habits.

Socialize Your Pet

Carving out time for play will ensure your pet stays mentally and physically stimulated, fostering a happy and healthy bond between you both. Animal shelters also offer valuable resources for socializing your pet. Employees can provide guidance on how to help your pet acclimate to their new home through various social situations. Consider enrolling your pet in obedience or training classes to help them practice manners and impressive tricks. For dog owners, taking your rescue pup to a dog park can provide an opportunity to make new friends and engage in positive interactions. Introducing other pets to your home, such as a cat or a rabbit, may require a more gradual approach, with greater attention to safety and monitoring. In the case of two or more rabbits, you may even need professional assistance to best facilitate their bond.

It’s also helpful to keep an eye on the Neighbors App for pet-related community events, which can offer even more opportunities for socialization and engagement within your community.

At Ring, we take pride in providing comprehensive support for pet owners through our range of products and the Neighbors App. Whether you have a dog, cat, or another kind of furry friend, Ring can help cover all your needs. With features like Video Monitoring and Two-Way Talk, you can stay connected with your pets anytime, no matter where you are. In case of an emergency, Lost Pet Posts and Pet Tags offer added peace of mind.

There’s truly nothing like the bond we share with our pets, and we’d love to see yours! We invite you to share your own heartwarming pet videos with us by sending them to submissions@ring.com.