Caring for Your New Pet

Considerations Before You Adopt
Mom...can we keep him?  He just followed me home!!  Whether your family decides to adopt a pet or you reach the decision yourself, there are a few things to consider BEFORE you adopt a pet for yourself or your family. Take a look around your house and your schedule:

• Do you have enough room for your pet to run and play?
• Do you have enough time to walk a dog?  Dogs are used to schedules.  Is your regular enough to accomodate him?
• Will you have enough time to give attention to your pet?  Pets need attention. Obviously you would like to give it attention if you are considering adoption. Be sure that your lifestyle is conducive to sharing some quality time with your pet.
• Are you ready to be a "parent"?  Pets are very much like children.  They need someone to take care of them and help meet their needs.  Okay, they won't be going to college anytime soon, but they still need training and guidance from their human friends.

During the Adoption

• Make sure you are getting a Health Certificate (a.k.a. Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) County or City operated animal control units and registered non-profit animal shelters are not required to do this.  Health Certificates are good for thirty (30) days
• Ask for verification of the most recent vaccinations
• Have the pet inspected by your veterinarian within two (2) days
• Make sure you have the necessary pet supplies (food & water dishes, litter box, leash, collar, food, etc.)

After the Adoption

• They will need lots of love and attention!
• Puppies and kittens will need boosters on their vaccinations at 8, 12 and 16 weeks. After that, they will only require annual vaccinations
• Make sure puppies or dogs are put on a heartworm preventative as soon as possible. (Check with your veterinarian first!) If a dog has not previously been taking a heartworm preventative, he or she may need a heartworm test first.  Click here to understand why...
• In the unfortunate situation where you think that you might have a pet that was sold to you under false pretenses, read a brief explanation of Florida's Pet Lemon Law