Adoption
Choosing to adopt your next best friend from a local shelter or rescue isn't just about giving a dog a home—it's about embarking on an exciting journey to find the perfect furry companion. From playful pups to seasoned seniors, shelters are brimming with dogs of all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique personality waiting to steal your heart. By choosing to adopt, you're not only saving a life but also gaining a loyal and loving friend who'll bring endless joy and adventure into your life.
Dogs and cats offer unparalleled companionship and relief from life's pressures," remarks Jessie Roper, a Best Friends Animal Society specialist in lifesaving outcomes. "They encourage living in the present moment, bring joy to your life, or simply curl up with you on the couch after a long day."
If you're contemplating expanding your family with a new dog but feel unsure where to begin, the process may feel daunting. Should you visit your local shelter or search for rescues online for your new companion? How will you know if a dog is the right fit for your lifestyle? What preparations should you make before bringing them home? Are you truly prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership?
Our comprehensive guide below will navigate you through the dog adoption journey, from the initial consideration of a new pet to the moment they become a part of your family. Adopting a new pet is an incredibly rewarding experience that creates lasting memories, and our aim is to support you in making this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Am I Ready for a Dog?
Determining if you're ready to welcome a dog into your life is a significant decision that involves various considerations. "It's important to assess how a new dog will integrate into your current lifestyle and living space," advises Roper. "If you lack a fenced-in yard, are you prepared to commit to multiple daily walks for exercise and bathroom breaks? Will existing pets or household members be receptive to a new addition? Are you open to learning basic training methods to effectively communicate with your new furry companion?" What we don’t want is for dogs to be impulse-adopted and then their new caregiver to wind up so overwhelmed they return the dog. It’s just not fair and can be prevented if the pet parent educates themselves and preparations are made beforehand. Before rushing to the shelter and becoming enamored with that adorable pound puppy, take a moment to reflect on the following factors:
Having a stable home and living situation is essential before adopting a dog to ensure their well-being and happiness. Dogs thrive in environments where they feel secure and comfortable, and stability provides them with the consistency they need to adjust and flourish. A stable home environment also enables pet owners to establish routines and provide consistent care, including feeding schedules, exercise regimens, and veterinary visits. Additionally, stability reduces the risk of disruptions or stressors that may impact a dog's behavior and overall quality of life. By ensuring stability in their living situation, pet owners can create a nurturing and supportive environment where their furry companions can thrive and thrive.
Ensuring you have enough time to dedicate to a new dog before adopting is crucial for their well-being and your ability to provide proper care. Dogs require daily attention, exercise, and mental stimulation to thrive, and committing to their care requires a significant time investment. Adequate time allows for bonding, training, and establishing routines essential for a healthy and happy relationship with your new furry friend. Rushing into adoption without considering time constraints can lead to neglect, behavioral issues, and ultimately, an unhappy living situation for both you and your dog. Taking the time to evaluate your schedule and commitments ensures you can meet the needs of a new dog and provide them with the love and attention they deserve.
Having the finances to properly take care of a new dog is crucial for ensuring their health, safety, and well-being. Dogs come with various expenses, including food, veterinary care, grooming, supplies, and unexpected emergencies. Adequate financial resources allow you to provide necessary preventive care, such as vaccinations and regular check-ups, as well as address any medical issues that may arise throughout their life. Additionally, financial stability ensures you can afford quality food, comfortable shelter, and enriching experiences to enhance your dog's quality of life. Without proper financial planning, you may struggle to meet your dog's needs, leading to compromised care and potential hardships for both you and your furry companion. Taking the time to assess your financial situation before adopting ensures you can provide the best possible life for your new dog.
Having a good support system and establishing clear roles within the household are essential when adopting a dog to ensure effective care and a harmonious living environment. Dogs thrive in environments where they feel loved and supported by all family members, and having a reliable support system ensures that their needs are consistently met. By determining who will be responsible for various tasks, such as feeding, walking, training, and veterinary care, you can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your dog receives consistent care and attention. Clear communication and collaboration among household members foster a sense of unity and shared responsibility, creating a positive and nurturing environment for both your dog and your family.
Having adequate space for your new dog is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Dogs require space to move around, play, and explore, and living in cramped quarters can lead to stress, anxiety, and behavioral problems. Additionally, providing ample space allows your dog to establish a sense of territory and independence, promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Adequate space also reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, providing a safe environment for your furry companion to thrive. Before adopting a dog, it's essential to assess your living situation and ensure you have enough space to accommodate their needs, providing them with the space they need to live a happy and fulfilling life.
Adoption Fees
Adoption fees for dogs vary depending on the shelter or rescue organization and are used to cover the costs associated with caring for the animals. These fees typically include expenses such as vaccinations, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and any necessary medical treatments. Additionally, adoption fees help support the shelter's operating costs, including facility maintenance, staff salaries, and animal welfare programs. In Los Angeles, adoption fees for dogs typically range from $100 to $500, with puppies often commanding higher fees due to their high demand and seniors generally priced lower to encourage their adoption. However, rates may fluctuate depending on factors such as the shelter's capacity and the dog's age, breed, and medical history.
Other than food, treats and fun things to play with, there are a few regular costs that prospective dog parents should keep in mind when considering adding a dog to their family, including:
Wellness + Medical Care: Dog parents in Los Angeles can expect to pay ~ $90-$150 for a regular office visit plus any additional vaccines, medications or treatments. If you use Modern Animal or veterinarians like it, you can pay an annual fee that covers unlimited office visits.
Flea + Tick Prevention + Heartworm Prevention: Dogs will need monthly prevention for parasites and heartworms. These costs depend on a dog’s weight. The bigger a dog is = the more expensive the prevention will be. For a larger dog ~ 50lbs, the average cost of these preventions could be around $250-300 for a 6 month supply (flea + tick + heartworm). Of course, there are low costs alternatives provided around Los Angeles.
Training: Training is essential for dogs to develop good behavior and social skills, with the cost of training sessions in Los Angeles ranging from approximately $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the trainer's experience and the specific needs of the dog. Additionally, there are countless options available online, including virtual classes with trainers and do-it-yourself videos, which can be quite helpful and cost-effective for pet owners.
Insurance: The cost of pet insurance varies depending on factors such as age and breed, with rates typically starting around $30 per month for a puppy and increasing gradually as they age into seniorhood; however, investing in pet insurance is invaluable for ensuring your pet's health and well-being.
Sitters + Boarding: Dog parents who travel often have a trusted pet sitter or boarding care set up for their pup while they’re away. In-home pet sitters cost an average or $45-$75 per day, and boarders typically cost between $30-$50 per night, depending on your dog’s weight. If you use a pet-sitter, make sure that person is bonded and insured - and absolutely check references.
Dog Walker: If you work long hours or have a dog who just can’t hold it during the workday, you may want to consider hiring a dog walker for roughly $20 per half hour in Los Angeles, depending on area.
Embracing a dog into your life involves financial considerations, and the expenses can accumulate over time. However, for many pet owners, the joy and companionship that come with adopting a dog far outweigh the monetary investment. When contemplating dog adoption, it's essential to carefully evaluate both the financial implications and the impact on your lifestyle, ensuring that you make an informed decision that aligns with your resources and priorities.
Other Costs to Keep In Mind
Resources
List of LA & Surrounding Area Rescues
The Good Boy Foundation is committed to providing valuable resources and education to empower pet parents in caring for their furry companions. However, it's important to note that the information provided on our website is intended for educational purposes only and should never replace the advice or treatment provided by a licensed veterinarian. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful guidance, we cannot be held responsible for any outcomes or consequences resulting from the application of this information. Pet parents are encouraged to consult with their veterinarian for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to their pet's specific needs and circumstances.