Readers know I’m pro adoption when it comes to animals and children.  Regardless of how you aquire your new pet here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Make sure your pet has met certain health standards; free of terminal illnesses, worms, fleas, ticks, etc.

2. If you are getting a specific breed, research habits, health issues and needs ahead of time.

3. Buy or adopt from a ruputable facility.  Many “under the radar” diseases exist in pets that come from “Puppy Mills” or “Cataries”.  These are facilities that have hundreds of animals housed in close proximity.

4. Make sure the breeder or shelter has a return policy and be clear on what it is and how long you have.

5. Seriously consider your availablity and life style.  If you’re never home, never get an animal.  If your gone all day find out which pets would do fine with that.  Think about your travel plans and the cost and care your new pet will require.  One common mistake I see is that people with limited time often purchase a puppy or kitten.  They would be far better off adopting an adult pet from a shelter or breed rescue site.

6. Listen to your heart.  Once you open it up, the right pet will be obvious.