Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make Me a Match

"What is the right dog for me?"

This question comes up often with new pet owners. And even those who already have pets wonder about the next member of their family. While there is no one right answer to that question, here are some topics to consider when you decide to rescue:

Your schedule

How often are you home?

Do you travel?

Do you enjoy weekend get-aways?

If you are out, do you have someone who will/can watch over your pet while you're gone?

If your work schedule keeps you at the office into the evening, or if your calendar is booked up with upcoming trips, perhaps adopting an older dog is the best choice as they don't require quite as much exercise as a puppy and enjoy naps quite a bit.

If your schedule is truly jam-packed, perhaps looking outside the canine family is a good idea. A cat can be a great companion as they tend to be more independent and are much more forgiving of busy schedules.

Your home

Do you have other pets? If yes, how does the new dog get along with other dogs? Cats?

Do you have young children? If yes, has the new dog been around children?

How big is your home? We're talking Chihuahua or Great Dane.

If you rent, what are the pet rules and restrictions?

Certain dog breeds, personalities, and ages work better in a home with other dogs, cats, younger children, etc. It's your job to do the homework on which ones are which.

Your budget

Know the vet costs - is that an expense you're able/willing to make? 

Know the grooming costs

Know the pet sitting costs - when your wonderful sister or the pet-loving neighbor are not available to watch Fido, can you afford the alternative?

Taking care of a pet can get expensive. Be ready to spend, sometimes hundreds, at the vets for preventative services, and sometimes thousands for emergency services. And don't forget the bathing, nail cutting, and babysitting costs, too!

There are no ways to avoid the vet bills, but smaller dogs do cost less when it comes to grooming and sometimes pet sitting, so choose wisely.

You

What is your energy level? Are you a couch potato, a marathon runner, or somewhere in between?

Does anyone in the household have allergies?

Do you want a playful dog who'll enjoy fetching for hours or prefers naps on the couch?

Dog personalities range from mellow to hyper so do your research to prevent surprises. There are many choices when it comes to size, age, energy level, fur length, and breed traits so make sure to choose the combination that matches you the best.

Whatever dog you rescue, remember that you're choosing a member of your family who deserves the attention, the love, and the expenses like any other member of your family.