Before deciding to adopt, you need to consider your reasons for wanting to add a new member to your family, the expectations you will have for that new family member and the long term commitment you are making to that new family member. This article might be a good starting point to guide you as you to consider these things.
http://m.humanesociety.org/issues/adopt/tips/adoption_questions_ask_yourself.html
Keep in mind that dogs can live 20 years, and can be a time consuming and expensive commitment!
- Will you be able to pay for food, monthly medicine like heart worm preventatives, regular veterinary care and unexpected emergencies?
- Is someone in the household going to be home to care for the dog every day?
- Are there restrictions on pet ownership set by your landlord or home owners association?
- Are you planning on any major lifestyle changes in the near future, such as relocating, retiring or having children? How will your new dog fit into your new lifestyle?
- Who will care for your new dog when you are away from home?
If you’ve considered the adoption commitment and are ready to find your new family member, check out our adoptable dogs page to begin your search. We will do everything we can to help you find the dog that is right for you.
After you you have found your new family member, we recommend a one week foster-to-adopt trial period to make sure that you and your new dog are a good fit. During that week, we are available to answer questions and help you make the adjustment to having a new member of your household. At the end of the week, if the match works out you can return to make the adoption official!
To help with the adjustment of a new dog, please read the document about decompression.
To view a copy of Russell Rescue of Tennessee’s adoption agreement follow the link below.