ADOPTING

Adopting a pet is a rewarding experience. The importance of considering a pet's personality and characteristics over looks or breed cannot be emphasized enough. This approach helps ensure a better match for both the adopter and the pet.

A brown and white dog lying on a wooden surface with a slightly squinting expression in sunlight, with green bushes and a dark background behind it.

HOW TO PICK A DOG

An Australian Shepherd dog with a blue tag on its collar, wearing an orange backpack, stands on a fallen tree in a lush green forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

  • Read these helpful articles to make sure you are not supporting a disreputable breeder, a puppy mill or purchasing a dog with potential problems. Remember, your costs will be higher when adopting from a breeder because your pet will need most of their vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping etc. Breed specific rescues and some breeders will rehome adult dogs from time to time. Consider this option if you want a specific breed and don’t have time for a puppy.

    Buying a Puppy from a Reputable Breeder

    How to Find a Responsible Dog Breeder

    You are eligible for a 1-month free trial of pet insurance upon your first exam at Fern Hill Veterinary Care, no matter who you adopt!

BUYING FROM A BREEDER

Two dogs sitting and lying on a grassy field in a park with trees and a fence in the background. One dog is sitting closest to the camera, smiling with its tongue out and has a black, tan, and white coat. The other dog is lying down further back, with a gray and tan coat with a merle pattern, also with its tongue out.

  • 1. Patience is Key: It may take some time to find the perfect match. Be patient and spend time interacting with different dogs to understand their personalities.

    2. Consider Rescues: In addition to shelters, consider rescue organizations that specialize in certain breeds or types of dogs if you have specific preferences.

    3. Visit the Shelter Multiple Times: Animals in shelters may be stressed, and their true personalities may not always be immediately apparent. Visiting multiple times allows you to see different aspects of a dog's behavior. Fostering to adopt is a great way to find out more about a dog.

    4. Ask Questions: Speak with the shelter staff or volunteers about the dog's history, behavior, and any special needs or requirements they may have.

    5. Home Environment: Consider your living situation and lifestyle. Some dogs thrive in active environments, while others may prefer a quieter setting.

    6. Prepare for the Transition: Bringing a new pet home requires some preparation. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, create a safe space, and introduce the new pet gradually to their new surroundings.

    7. Veterinary Care: Take advantage of our free shelter pet exam and schedule regular veterinary check-ups to keep your new companion healthy.

  • -Family Dogs New Life

    -Multnomah County Animal Services

    -Clackamas County Dog Services

    -Oregon Humane Society

    -Underdogs Rock Rescue

    -Street Dog Hero

    -Hood River Adopt a Dog

    -One Tail at a Time

    -Animal Aid

    Remember: Dogs from shelters have usually been spayed or neutered, microchipped and had some of their vaccines making the adoption fee well worth it.

    You are eligible for a 1-month free trial of pet insurance upon your first exam at Fern Hill Veterinary Care, no matter who you adopt!

ADOPTING A SHELTER DOG