Adopt

Congratulations on Deciding to Welcome a New Furry Family Member!

Adding a pet to your family is a special moment, whether you’re adopting a playful pup, a curious kitten, or a wise senior cat. Here are some friendly reminders to get you started on this journey:

Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Owning a Pet is a Long-Term Commitment
  Pets are lifetime companions. Dogs often live 12-18 years, and cats can live even longer! They’ll be with you through every life stage and rely on you for love, care, and stability. Being prepared for this commitment is essential to creating a fulfilling bond.
• Owning a Pet Takes Time and Effort
  Caring for a pet can be both fun and challenging. It’s hard work—especially with a puppy or kitten—but the ups and downs are worth it! Consistency and patience go a long way in helping your pet adjust and feel at home.
• Owning a Pet Has Costs
  From food and toys to veterinary care, grooming, and emergency expenses, pets come with a financial commitment. Be sure to budget for regular and unexpected costs to provide your furry friend with a happy and healthy life. Consider pet insurance to help with unexpected costs.

First Things First: Do Your Research

Take time to research what type of pet would best suit your lifestyle. Each pet has unique needs, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your shared happiness.

• Focus on Compatibility, Not Just Looks
  Every pet is unique in personality, regardless of appearance. Choosing based on temperament and lifestyle compatibility is much more important than looks.
• Consider Online Compatibility Quizzes
  Not sure where to start? Try a breed or pet compatibility quiz to help identify options that may suit your household, whether for cats or dogs.
• For Mixed Breeds or Rescue Pets
  If you’re adopting a mixed-breed pet, learning about each breed in the mix can offer insights into likely behavior and needs. If it’s a rescue pet with unknown history, talk to the organization about their personality and be honest about what you’re looking for in a companion.

Connect with Fellow Pet Owners

Some of the best advice comes from other pet owners! Chat with friends who’ve recently adopted or visit pet communities online. You can even follow accounts dedicated to specific breeds or types of pets to learn more.

Choosing a Rescue Organization

Ontario has many wonderful rescues filled with pets looking for their forever homes. Here are some resources to get you started:

• Etobicoke Humane Society: A volunteer-run charity in Toronto dedicated to rescuing and rehoming cats and dogs in need.
• Petfinder Canada: Browse by breed, age, size, and location to find pets available for adoption in Ontario.
• Adopt-a-Pet: Another great platform to explore listings from various rescues and shelters.

Many rescues share available pets on social media, so following local groups can help you stay up-to-date.

Tip: Working with a reputable rescue is essential, as not all rescues operate the same way. Do your research to avoid red flags and ensure you’re supporting a group that prioritizes the welfare of the animals. 

Learn more about our shelter and rescue support initiatives here.

Choosing a Responsible Breeder

If you’re interested in a specific breed and choose to go through a breeder, it’s essential to work with a responsible, ethical breeder who cares about the health and well-being of their pets.

• Use Trusted Resources: The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) breeder search is a good place to start for dogs, as CKC-registered breeders follow a code of ethics. For cats, consider using the Canadian Cat Association breeder directory.
• Know the Signs of a Reputable Breeder: Reputable breeders provide health guarantees, detailed information about the breed, and a supportive environment. The Humane Society offers a checklist to help you make an informed choice.

Owning a pet is a meaningful journey, and with the right preparation, you’ll build a lifetime of happy memories with your new companion. Don't forget to come see us at Critter & Co. Pet Outpost for the Best Toronto Pet Supplies. Good luck finding the perfect furry addition to your family!

Feature picture credit: Photo by Danielle Daniel