How Can I Adopt a Dog? Things to Think About.

Rescuing a dog can be one of the most joyous events in the world. Giving a pet their ‘forever’ home is not only rewarding for a dog, but also for us two legged variety! Pet Insurance Australia investigates.

Talk to the countless adoptive dog parents and they’ll tell you – saving a pet and offering a forever home is one of the most grafiying experiences around. With over 900 rescue and rehoming organisations across and a huge 230,000 dogs and cats that remain unclaimed in Australian animal shelters each year. Choosing to rescue a dog, makes good sense.

From older dogs, to young pups, and breeds of all different shapes and sizes. Choosing the perfect pup for your home may take a little time but it will certainly be worthwhile.

How much does it cost to adopt a dog?

The costs depending on which organisation you choose to adopt your new family friend from. Some will charge a fee, that will include the de-sexing and vaccination of your pet, while if it is a private rescue pup you might not pay anything. In some instances veterinary clinics will have unwanted pets for sale.

Remembering that all costs associated with the adoption go towards the effort of rehoming that can include:

• De-sexing
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations
• Training & behavioural work
• And basic preparation for going to a new home.

The costs are also much less than purchasing from other sources.

Can I adopt a dog for free?

Yes in certain situations. However, it is always best to have your pet checked by a veterinarian before you decide on taking them home. The best advice is to seek out a reputable shelter organisation. Then you can be 100% sure your pet is in the best health possible and also vaccinated, de-sexed and ready to be rehomed.

Many top rehoming shelters will run specials throughout the year for puppies for adoption. It’s a great idea to give your local shelter a call and ask about any possible future specials.

What do I need to adopt a dog?

You will be interviewed by your shelter to ensure that you and the dog you have chosen are the perfect fit. This may include asking if you already have existing pets, and also your living environment. Some dogs will need special care and attention compared to others.

Taking photos of your home and backyard is a great idea. If you have other dogs many times the shelter will organise a ‘playdate’ to ensure all of the family members get along.

Once you have found your perfect match it’s time to get prepared for your new family member.

• Food and water bowls
• Snuggly correct sized bedding
• A quiet spot or crated area for pups
• Chew toys
• Suitable food – check with the shelter and change gradually to prevent tummy upsets
• Collar and tags
• Lead
• Pooper scooper
• Brush

How long does the dog adoption process take?

This will also depend on the shelter organisation you decide to adopt from. You will be expected to fill out a registration form and once this has been accepted an adoption agent will interview you and ensure that the dog you have chosen suits your lifestyle.

Many shelters also then have a 24hr cooling down period to make sure that the choice you have made is the right one.

Some organisations will also allow you to do a months trial with the pet.

Should I adopt a dog?

• Think carefully about your lifestyle before you recue a dog.
• Choose your pet breed wisely, understand the breed traits and its history – if you are not a high energy person rescuing a high energy dog is not a good match.
• Recusing a dog can be one of the best things you’ll ever do. Be sure to ask the rescue group or animal shelter if you can do a trial for a month with the pet.
• Stuff happens in our lives, have a Plan B in place if you can no longer look after your pet.
• If you are not ready for a pet but want to spend some time with animals, consider volunteering at your local shelter.

We offer award-winning* pet insurance policies to protect your furry friend’s health and wellbeing. Get a quote today and give your pets the care they deserve.