| Adopting a pet is a great way to add to your family, | | | | you. |
| but there are some rules you should follow when | | | | At the Shelter: |
| adopting a pet, to make sure it all run smoothly. | | | | |
| After all, you don't want the trip to the pet shelter | | | | 1. Be sure to remind your children of the rules you |
| to be full of arguments and chaos; you want it to be | | | | have set out regarding the adoption of a new pet. |
| a smooth, clear, decisive process. So here are some | | | | 2. Take a brisk walk past all the animals, and narrow |
| guidelines to help your pet adoption experience run | | | | them down to a handful that you would possibly like. |
| more smoothly. | | | | Then go back to each of these animals and give |
| Before You Visit the Shelter: | | | | them a closer look. |
| | | | 3. Be sure to ask the shelter staff any questions, for |
| 1. Make sure everyone in the family is in agreement | | | | example the history of the animal, it's behaviour, it's |
| regarding the type of pet you want to get (dog, cat, | | | | health. |
| etc.) and also the breed, size and gender of the pet. | | | | After Your Visit: |
| 2. Make sure everyone is aware of animal safety. | | | | |
| Make sure nobody is going to be frightened when | | | | 1. Go home and sit down as a family and discuss |
| approaching an animal, particularly large dogs for | | | | which your favourite pets were. Then try to come |
| example. | | | | to a unanimous decision. |
| 3. Make sure everyone knows exactly what to | | | | 2. Call the shelter and inform them of your decision. |
| expect. There will be many animals there, all wanting | | | | 3. Make plans to collect your new pet. |
| a good home, but you can only take one home with | | | | |