Our Foster Dogs from Fuzzy Friends Rescue Mel, Craig, & Buddie
Introducing Guest Blogger Becki Goss Shepherd, the Director of Community Outreach and Development for Fuzzy Friends Rescue. Becki has worked with Fuzzy friends Rescue for many years and deals with pet adoption every day. We asked her to give us her thoughts on where to start on your journey to adopting the most suitable companion.
Picking a pet is NOT like picking a bouquet
Animals give us the warm fuzzies, and it’s easy to let that feeling distract us when we are choosing a pet. But since adopting a companion animal is a commitment to another living thing—hopefully an agreement that will last for a decade or longer—we need to put more thought in it than whether we want chicken or fish for dinner. Most animal adoption agencies have a strict screening process to help make the best decision possible, but here are some things to consider before filling out the adoption papers.
- Are you likely to live with your new pet in a house with a yard, or in a small apartment? If you have a yard to share, a medium to large dog might be just the thing. If it’s an apartment, consider a smaller Fido or Tabby.
- Look at your energy vs. a dog’s needs. Some dogs need to be walked every day. Can you walk with your pet, or if not, get someone to do that with you? If not, consider an older dog with less energy, or even a cat to share your lap.
- Can you afford to feed Tabby and give her the medicine she needs if she gets sick? Animals can be expensive; neglect is never an option.
- Are you married? Does your spouse want a companion animal in the house? What about children? Involve other members of the family in the decision to ensure they want a pet and are willing to help share the responsibility of care. It’s not fair to a cute puppy or kitten to neglect it when it’s no longer small and cuddly and our lives become “too busy” to give it our attention.
These are talking points to help get you started on a wonderful journey with a new member of your household. Be sure you are honest with yourself about your needs and wants so that your new companion animal does not become a quick return.
To learn more about Fuzzy Friends rescue or see the many cats and dogs waiting for their forever homes visit their website www.fuzzyfriendsrescue.com
Well here is your chance! Shelter groups and breed specific rescue groups throughout Central Texas will be participating in this exciting Adoption Event! It will be held December 5th from 11am-4pm at the HOT Fairgrounds 4601 Bosque Blvd. This event is sponsored by Fuzzy Friends Rescue, Waco Humane Society, and Heart ‘O Texas Fair Complex.