And Why You Should Ask Them
Adopting a pet can be a very exciting time, but it can also be stressful. Ensuring the pet you are adopting is healthy and happy can ensure that the transition from house to home will be as smooth as possible.
Here are 3 questions you should ask someone before adopting a pet; whether it be a personal adoption or adoption from a shelter, they should be happy that you are concerned and want to ensure the proper care of the pet once it changes hands. If anyone ever seems frustrated or refuses to answer questions, it may be safer to not adopt and move on, but that, of course, is up to you and your best judgment.
#1 How long have you had the pet?
Moving homes can be stressful and The Odd Pet Out has a probation period for this reason. It helps to ensure that the pet isn’t overly stressed from being passed around, we have the opportunity to get proper vet care, and it also helps us to ensure that we see the full health and personality of the pet.
By asking this, you get the opportunity to see into the eyes of the animal for a moment. Are they getting passed around a lot? Stress can cause health issues, as well as personality defects like aggression.
This also helps you to prepare for the pet. If you decide to proceed with adopting a pet that has been passed around or rehomed, you know that it will need a more extended period of rest and acclimation. Let them know they are safe and at home before lots of overstimulation.
#2 What is the current diet of the pet?
ALWAYS DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! Asking these questions is to let you know what kind of diet to prepare for, but will also let you know the level of care provided. Some pets have a very complicated diet and this diet can affect long-term health.
#3 What is the pet's daily routine?
It may sound funny at first, but this will help you learn about any pet.
For example;
If the dog goes for a walk 3 times a day, you know it is probably a high-energy dog that will need that attention.
If they are on a lighting or heating schedule; you know that the proper care and temperatures have been maintained.
If they get a lot of personal time being handled; you know they may get depressed if left alone for too long.
and of course, that list goes on.
It helps you to transition the pet as smoothly as possible to its new life and ensure that you are also getting what you want out of the relationship with your new pet.
If you want a loving companion, the bird who never gets handled will take some time to warm up to that idea, this helps you to prepare for that.
They Are Simple Questions But Useful
Not only does this help you to ensure the pet is healthy before you get it, but it helps you to prepare for the transition. A lot of times when we get a pet we expect it to fall into routine right away. The friendliest pet in the world can seem aggressive when scared, they are like children, you can't just explain that it will be okay, you have to show them.
Any person you adopt from should be happy to answer these questions to the best of their knowledge. Unfortunately, nothing is guaranteed and people can lie, but these answers will help you decipher how the pet is treated.
Obviously, by no means am I saying to not adopt from a rescue because the pet is new… just keep in mind what you expect as well. A bird from a breeder might be better for a home with children than a bird from a pet store.
AND YES, even a pet store should answer these questions willingly.
As always, I am always willing to answer questions to the best of my ability and wish you the best of luck on the search for your new family member!
No comments:
Post a Comment