APPLY to adopt

There are various situations to consider before adopting a life long friend. It can happen to the best of us. You see a gorgeous french bulldog or malinois whose tail seems to be wagging just for you. You take one look, and the next thing you know, you're walking down the toy aisle at the supermarket.

If you're like most of us, falling in love with a pet is easy. And no wonder! Sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest joys. Dogs, cats, and other pets give us unconditional loyalty and acceptance, provide constant companionship, and even help relieve stress after a hard day's work.

Adopting a pet, though, is a big decision. animals require lots of time, money, and commitment-over 15 years worth in many cases. Pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you adopt a companion.

Adopting a pet just because the kids have been pining for a puppy or as a gift for a family member or loved one usually ends up being a big mistake. Bringing home a new pet should be a collective decision. Don't forget that pets may be with you 10, 15, even 20 years.

Dogs, cats, and other animal companions cannot be ignored just because you're tired or busy. They require food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year. Many animals in the shelter are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to properly care for them. Understanding the age and type of pet (breed, temperament, hair coat) that best fits your lifestyle is important.

The costs of pet ownership can be quite high. While our adoption fees include vaccines, spay, neuter and microchipping, quality nutrition, unexpected medical expenses, grooming and training classes can add up quickly.

Flea infestations, chewed furniture legs, messes from animals who aren't yet fully housetrained, and unexpected medical emergencies are, while often preventable, the reality of everyday pet ownership.

Many communities have guidelines or restrictions regarding pets. Whether an HOA, apartment, or private rental residence, make sure you know what they are before you fill out an application with a specific pet in mind. Breed, weight and number of pets are a few of the most common restrictions we see.

 If you're a student, in the military, travel frequently as part of your work, recently moved or preparing to relocate soon, have started a new job, or added a new family member, now may not be the ideal time to adopt a pet.

 When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime. That lifetime can be almost 20 years. Pets in general are living longer, do you have a plan if you become ill or unable to care for your pet? Being prepared for unexpected is the responsibility of every pet owner.