Things to consider before buying/adopting a pet

[stephluvju]

This is great, Ange!

[nineten]

I would talk to them and tell them you do plan on walking them, maybe tell them about a parl nearby where you can play etc. they shouldn't be hesitant like that for a small dog, that's ridiculous.

@tropical, Go elsewhere outside your locality. There's transporters that can get a Chi to you. Or have you already gotten one?

Some info written about specific dogs will state that they're ideal for an apt and usually that's an older dog even a Chi. But some of these rescue groups are strict stating that you *must have* a fenced yard. One I saw had a statement by a person that worked for the group and even she said it was crazy that they had a rule that they didn't adopt out to *people that worked!!* As she said, most people do work. I have no clue as to where I read that but I bet it was one that doesn't have a facility and only has dogs at the foster homes. I don't see how they could operate a business with that rule.

I guess maybe when they see the other shelters receiving more of the Chi dogs from CA then maybe they'll bend those rules.

[MMGCA]

We adopted a puppy from the humane society sartuday, we are soo happy with her. thanks for this thread!

[nineten]

15 REASONS TO ADOPT AN OLDER DOG!

One of the saddest things is an old dog left in a shelter by an uncaring human family. Common excuses people use are that they don't have enough time for the dogs or that they are moving (although I have never heard of any state in the U.S. where dogs are illegal). In this disposable society we live in, some people actually dump their family dog in a shelter and walk out with a new puppy. Imagine the fear, sadness and confusion that an old shelter dog faces.Even worse, their time in the shelter is spent watching people walk past their cages, barely seeing them, instead rushing to the cute puppies.



Why would anyone consider sharing their home with an older dog, when there are so many younger ones available?

By adopting an older dog, you can make a statement about compassion and the value of all life at all ages, as well as register a protest against the indiscriminate and inhumane breeding of dogs, whether it is for profit or to "teach the children about birth." And, of course, just as a puppy has his whole life ahead of him, so does an older dog have the rest of his life in front of him. You can give that older dog the best years of his life while at the same time bringing a wonderful addition into your family.



1. What You See Is What You Get

Older dogs are open books—from the start, you’ll know important things like their full-grown size, personality and grooming requirements. All this information makes it easier to pick the right dog and forge that instant love connection that will last a lifetime. If you’re not so into surprises, an older dog is for you!


2. Easy to Train

Think you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Hogwash! Older dogs are great at focusing on you—and on the task at hand—because they’re calmer than youngsters. Plus, all those years of experience reading humans can help them quickly figure out how to do what you’re asking.


3. Seniors are Super-Loving

These dogs give you—and those of you who adopted dogs already in their golden years told us how devoted and grateful they are. It's an instant bond that cannot be topped!


4. They’re Not a 24-7 Job

Grownup dogs don’t require the constant monitoring puppies do, leaving you with more freedom to do your own thing. If you have young children, or just value your “me time,” this is definitely a bonus.


5. They Settle in Quickly

Older dogs have been around the block and already learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack.They’ll be part of the family in no time!


6. Fewer Messes

Your floors, shoes and furniture will thank you for adopting a senior pooch! Older dogs are likely to already be housetrained—and even if they’re not, they have the physical and mental abilities to pick it up really fast (unlike puppies). With their teething years far behind them, seniors also are much less likely to be destructive chewers.


7. You Won’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew


There are those who yearn for a doggie friend of their own, but hold back because they worry what might happen in their lives in the years to come. And they are wise to do so—a puppy or young dog can be anywhere from an 8- to 20-year responsibility, which is not appropriate for the very elderly or those with certain long-term future plans. Providing a loving home for a dog in her golden years is not a less serious commitment, but it can be a shorter one.

8. They Enjoy Easy Livin’

Couch potato, know thyself! Please consider a canine retiree rather than a high-energy young dog who will run you ragged. Not that older dogs don’t require any exercise—they do—but they’re not going to need, or want, to run a marathon every day.

9. A good night's sleep

Older dogs let you get a good night's sleep because they're accustomed to human schedules and don't generally need nighttime feedings, comforting, or bathroom breaks.

10. Time for yourself -

Older dogs leave you time for yourself, because they don't make the kinds of demands on your time and attention that puppies and young dogs do.


11. Companionship.

Senior dogs whose lives have been disrupted in their later years have so much love to give and like nothing better than giving it. They tend to rely heavily on their owner for companionship and therefore bond very quickly. The desire to reciprocate the companionship given to them is very strong.


12. Seniors for seniors.


An attractive concept used by many animal rescue/humane organizations, an older dog can be successfully matched up with a senior citizen. Lifestyle requirements of an older person often mix well with the lifestyle of an older dog. It's a win/win situation, resulting in quality retirement companionship for both.


13. Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?

You sure can. While it may take an older dog a bit longer to adjust to new situations, they can; they will; they do. Their only requirement is to be given the opportunity. Generally, older dogs are calmer and therefore will focus much easier on what you are trying to teach them.


14. Save a Life, Be a Hero

At shelters, older dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized. (And it's sad to see a family drop off an older dog and leave with a puppy.) Saving an animal’s life offers an unparalleled emotional return on your investment, and you’ll feel the rewards every day you spend together.

15. They’re CUTE!

Need I say more?


Please consider adopting a senior dog , you won't be sorry. Your decision to adopt a senior pet will be rewarded with unconditional love and devotion..