by Darlene Busbee

Created on: May 31, 2009

Adopting a pet can be an exciting time. Who wouldn't be excited about adding a furry friend to their family? However, through all of the excitement and anticipation, there are a few things that you must consider.

First off, can you afford all of the new responsibilities of owning a pet? Money is hard to come by these days, so you must consider the cost of your new pet.

If you are planning on adopting a bigger pet, they will more than likely eat more than a small pet would. Also, a larger sized pet will require a larger yard and fence. A doggie door could be a huge bonus, so if you do not have one, you might want to consider getting one put in.

Every pet should be checked out by a vet once a year. Puppies require more visits than normal, simply because they are young.

Food, toys, vet checks, treats, flea and tick treatments, heart worm preventative, collars, and leashes are some of the main costs of owning a pet. Once you have determined you can afford everything you need for your future friend, you can move on to more intimate details.

The second thing you need to consider is the living conditions for you new pet.

If you do not own your property, you would need to check with your landlord to see what pet restrictions they have. The last thing you want to do is adopt a pet then have your landlord tell you that you can't keep it.

Once you have an understanding of the pet rules and regulations, then you can turn your attention to your actual home. If you live in a one bedroom 700 sq. ft. apartment, a boxer or pit bull might not be the best choice for you. You want to pet to feel comfortable.

If you already own a pet, set up an appointment with the adoption center for you to bring your current pet by to meet your new one. Do this before you sign any adoption papers! Bringing your current pet in to meet your possible new one will ease the tension when you bring you new pet home.

Before you bring your pet home, be sure to put any valuables out of reach. If you have a pillow that your mother hand stitched you for Christmas, take it off the couch and put it on a shelf somewhere. Things like this are very easy for a pet to tear up. You do not know how your new pet will react when you bring them home, so just to be safe, put valuables in a secure place.

Last but not least, once you bring your pet home, they are likely to be timid and shy. Most adoption centers take in abused animals. Be patient with your pet and allow them time to get used to the new surroundings. Make sure they know where the food and water is located.

Once they seem to have calmed down a little, then you can begin with introducing them to their toys, collars, and any other treats you might have waiting for them.

Most of all just remember to enjoy your new pet. This is an exciting time for both of you. It doesn't have to be stressful, but it does require some precautions. If you keep the pets comfort a priority in your mind, everything should fall into place fairly easily.

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