Somewhere in the sea of adoptable animals exists one perfectly tailored for you – your furry soul mate! It’s important to consider a plethora of variables when choosing a pet to adopt; hundreds of pets chosen as gifts or on a whim are returned to shelters every year. So before you head to your local animal shelter, answer these questions to determine your ideal companion.  

What’s your activity level?

Are you an active runner or do you just enjoy a casual walk in the park with your pooch? Either way, you should choose a canine that matches your activity level. Larger dog breeds like Collie or Husky are a perfect match for the owner with a high amount of activity. On the flipside, if you are busy and prefer an animal that requires less exercise, select a smaller or even lapdog breed; Maltais, Bassett Hound, and Pug are all prime examples.

How much time can you spend with your pet?
Some dog breeds are more “sensitive” than others, and require more attention and care. If you work full-time or travel often, make sure your animal doesn’t feel neglected. Cats such as the Sphynx, Siamese, and Bengals, and dogs like Alaskan Malamutes and Dalmatians, need owners who can give them lots of love and care.
 
Do you prefer long-haired, short-haired, or hypoallergenic breeds?
Now the fur doesn’t make the animal, but it can be an important factor when deciding what breed of pet to adopt. Fluffy or long-haired breeds like the Pomeranian dog and the Birman cat need professional grooming on a regular basis to prevent their long coats from matting or tangling. Animals with short or wiry coats can require minimal or no grooming to maintain their coats; if this is ideal for you, choose from breeds similar to the American or British Shorthair cats or the Labrador Retriever dog. Hypoallergenic breeds are for people who suffer from allergies to animal dander or fur, and include Poodles and Sphynx cats.
 
Will the animal come into contact with children?
Animals can be unpredictable, especially when they are confronted with stressful situations. If your household has children, it’s important that you choose an animal that is friendly and not aggressive. Dog breeds include Golden and Labrador Retrievers, all Spaniels, Pugs, and Jack Russell Terriers. Cat breeds like the American Shorthair, Ragdoll, Burmese, and Persian are also excellent around small children and love attention. Avoid animals that are especially high-strung, like German Shepherds and Russian Blue cats.
 

Adopting an animal is a great responsibility, and you should ensure that all aspects of the prospective pet fit your lifestyle! All of the aforementioned criteria are important components to ensure that both you and your animal can enjoy a happy, carefree period of time together. Good luck in finding your feline or canine soul mate!

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