Responsible Pet Ownership Starts with Responsible Pet Adoption

It is always exciting to add a new family member to a household. A new dog or cat is a big responsibility and it may affect many aspects of your and your family’s life. From matching the pet’s breed to your lifestyle to budgeting for your pet, planning ahead is an important part of responsible pet ownership. State Farm and Trupanion offer the following tips to help you pick a new best friend.

Match your pet’s breed to your lifestyle.

You may walk through a shelter or rescue and see a dog with the most adorable face. But, is it the right one for your lifestyle? One of the most important factors of responsible pet adoption is picking the best pet that matches your lifestyle. Every dog breed is different and may have certain breed characteristics or personality traits. Do your research. Pick a pet breed that complements your daily schedule as well as your family needs. Consider how much time and energy you have to dedicate to a new family member. For example, do you work long hours, travel often, or live in a smaller space? Keep in mind that State Farm does not have a breed restriction policy. All dog breeds or types are welcome!

Research your animal welfare organization.

There are a variety of animal welfare organizations helping pets every day. Research which animal shelter or rescue group you would like to adopt from and make sure to ask questions. For example, most animal shelter organizations are run by volunteers. They have spent a lot of time getting to know each one of these animals. They may have information about behaviors and quirks that may not be listed on a piece of paper.

Budget for your pet.

The cost of bringing home a pet could be more than you think. In addition to food, toys, and training, your new pet will need a yearly veterinary exam, preventative care, and vaccinations. In addition to these expected costs, can you cover costs of an expected pet injury or illness?

Your pet’s medical care may cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. At the end of the day, you want your new dog or cat to be happy and healthy. Consider your finances when adopting a new pet. Can you afford the potential cost for the unexpected? A great option to consider is getting pet medical insurance. State Farm provides medical insurance coverage for cats and dogs through Trupanion. This option makes illness or injury treatment decisions easier, allowing pets to get the care they need without worry of paying for treatment.

Responsible pet adoption is important for the wellness of your furry family member.

Whether you’re looking to bring home a new puppy, kitten, or an adult pet, there are a number of factors to consider when it comes to responsible pet adoption. But by picking your breed, doing your research, and budgeting for your new pet, you’re on your way to being a responsible pet owner.

Thinking about adoption or fostering a pet?

Trupanion has created a free, recorded webinar to help you learn even more about how to prepare, including Q&A with Animal Behaviorists and leading Veterinarians. Watch the webinar here.