By Tanya M. Ursual

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) L.A.W.S., P.O. Box 156, Smiths Falls, ON, K7A 4T1:

You’ve discussed it, as a family, and have come to the decision that you are ready to add a new pet to your life. You’ve also decided to visit your local animal shelter to find your new companion, rather than purchasing one. It is estimated that 3.5 million animals are euthanized in shelters across North America each year because there aren’t enough homes for them. These are animals which were once purchased or breed, but were abandoned, lost or not properly cared for. You are doing a wonderful thing by adopting a shelter animal and give a cat or dog a second chance at a great life. Courtesy of the B.C.S.P.C.A., here are some important things to think about before heading out to LAWS or any shelter:

MATURITY: Are there benefits to an older animal?

Older, mature animals are an ideal choice for adoption. They are usually more laid back and have been house-trained. Their size, look and personality are easily evidenced, which isn‘t always the case with kittens and puppies. Often it is the mature animals that make the best companions. They are probably familiar with a household routine and tend to make themselves at home very quickly.

KITTENS/PUPPIES: Are they right for you?

We regularly receive calls inquiring about kittens and puppies but there are real benefits to adopting a slightly older animal. Puppies and kittens can be demanding and will require lots of patience, training and time. You should also be prepared for the fact that they can be destructive while going through their chewing phase. If you do adopt a puppy or kitten, it is critically important to understand that you will help to form its personality. Unless you put in the time required to build confidence and reinforce positive behaviour, you will be faced with long-lasting problems.

PATIENCE: Shelter animals will need time to adjust.

When visiting the shelter, remember that the animals are probably confused and scared by their new surroundings. Just because an animal is crying, barking or acting aloof does not mean it will not make a good companion. Shelters are not an ideal environment for pets. Some of the most highly stressed animals in our shelter have turned into the happiest and most relaxed pets within hours of arriving in their new home.

Shelter animals sometimes come with their own little suitcase of sadness and hurt. Patience and understanding are critically important when adopting a shelter animal. It might take up to a month for them to fully settle into their new environment.

Making the right match to your expectations and lifestyle is the most important part of the adoption process and shelter staff are here to help you find the most suitable companion.

NEUTERING: You're new companion will be spayed or neutered.

The goal of LAWS is to spay or neuter every cat, prior to adoption. Spaying and neutering is mandatory for all LAWS adoptions. If a shelter animal hasn't been altered prior to adoption, a certificate to have your animal spayed or neutering by a veterinarian is included with adoption. Shelters offer a variety of animals including mixed breeds and purebreds.

TRANSITION: Preparing your home is essential

All members of the household need to be involved in the new arrival. The whole family should have a role in selecting the new animal and in having a role in the in-home adjustment.

DOGS

Creating a safe and stable living environment is essential. Baby gates are ideal, in the case of dogs, for establishing any areas of the house that are off limits. Be consistent with these limits right from the beginning. Every animal should have a space that is just their own. It should be a spot that is warm, quiet and comfortable. A crate is a good option for dogs as the have a natural denning instinct.

CATS

Cats are immaculately clean creatures born with an instinct to bury their waste. A litter box placed in a clean quiet area situated far away from the food bowls, is important. Cats spend much of their day sleeping so be sure to offer them a comfy bed all their own. A high level window perch offers them stimulation without having to venture outside.

CONSISTENCY:

Your new pet will require lots of love and attention. In addition to that, one of the most important things you can provide is consistency. Establish house rules and expectations BEFORE bringing your new pet home. If you are not familiar with how to train a dog it is absolutely imperative you go through a reputable dog training program or purchase one of the many excellent dog training books available. They will teach you and the dog clear expectations for communicating with one another. See you soon!