Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt a Pet
Before You Adopt
Choose the right pet
Shelter pets may be purebred or mixes.
- How to choose a cat
- How to choose a dog
- 10 things you need to know before adopting a bird
What to expect in a pet adoption
- Plan a winning pet adoption
- How much does it cost to own a pet?
- Different types of rescue groups
- An adopter's bill of rights
- Before you complain about your local shelter
Questions to ask the adoption group
- Is a home visit required prior to adoption?
- What is the pet adoption fee?
- Are pet introductions by appointment only?
Pet Adoptions and Free Pets
Why pay a pet adoption fee?
It may be tempting to look for a free pet in your local classifieds rather than pay a pet adoption donation. But the reality is, no pet is free: You'll be responsible for her vet care, food and supplies for the rest of her life (see more information on the annual costs of pet ownership). Pet adoption fees vary by organization, but often cover the basic veterinary care you would have to pay for with your "free" pet.
Where does my adoption fee go?
Ask the rescue group, but fees usually include:
- Spaying/neutering $150-300
- Distemper vaccination $20-30 x2
- Rabies vaccination $15-25
- Heartworm test $15-35
- Flea/tick treatment $50-200
- Microchip $50
Another note on “free” pets
Unfortunately, individuals who do not have a pet's best interests in mind often scour classifieds for “free to a good home” ads. Therefore it’s recommended that anyone seeking to rehome a pet request an adoption fee (see more on finding homes for pets).
After You Adopt
Welcome your new pet
- A guide to housetraining
- Dealing with separation anxiety
- Introducing your cat to a new addition
Pet preparation videos
- How to cat-proof your home
- How to puppy-proof your home
