Pets Before you adopt…

Animal Welfare League Veterinarian, DR SIMONE MAHER reveals her checklist

1 DO YOUR RESEARCH

Once you decide you’re ready to adopt, it can be tempting to head straight to your local animal shelter – but it pays to be prepared. “Few of us would make any significant decisions without trawling the internet for reviews and recommendations. The same applies to pet adoption,” says Dr Maher.

2 DON’T RUSH INTO IT

“An animal shelter or rescue organisation should help you find the right animal, so you can make sure you find a furry friend suited to you and your family,” advises Dr Maher. “Be guided by experts around you who know the animal.”

3 SAFETY FIRST

“To assess this, you really need to think like a dog, cat or whatever species you’re looking at bringing home,” says Dr Maher. Keep toxic materials out of reach and have food ready for their arrival. “Transition them slowly if changing from their accustomed diet and consider a nutritious food with simple and limited ingredients, like Purina Beyond,” adds Dr Maher.

4 INSURE TO BE SURE

“Like most of the best things in life, pet ownership ain’t free,” Dr Maher says. “Consider pet insurance, which may help cover routine expenses like vaccinations and unexpected ones – because accidents do happen. Compare policies carefully just as you would any other type of cover.”

5 CONSISTENCY IS KEY

“You need to get the whole family on board with your approach to training and shaping your new friend,” tells Dr Maher. “Rules need to be applied consistently otherwise it’s confusing for everyone.”