Adopting a pet for the first time can be both exciting and scary. But that new pet-parent journey brings along a new set of responsibilities and time management \u2014 and choosing the cutest puppy or kitten is not the only factor to consider.<\/p>\n
NBC 7 spoke with John Van Zante from Rancho Coastal Humane Society to break down three things to think about before taking in a furry friend.<\/p>\n
1. Finding the perfect match<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s important to know what type of pet best fits your lifestyle. Are there any non-negotiables? Are there specific qualities or preferences you\u2019re looking for in a pet?<\/p>\n “Start by coming in and telling us about you: your lifestyle, where you live, your activity level,” Van Zante said.<\/p>\n Adoption counselors are available at several shelters, and they can help make recommendations and answer any questions you may have. Rancho Coastal Humane Society offers different adoption surveys<\/a>, along with their Find My Fit Adoption Program<\/a>, which helps you in your search for your forever friend.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cWe want to match the needs of the pet with the desires of the family,\u201d Van Zante said. \u201cThis is a standard adoption process. This isn\u2019t a, \u2018We\u2019re giving away free dogs and cats. Come in!\u2019 Let\u2019s make a match for you.\u201d<\/p>\n 2. Prep your home<\/strong><\/p>\n Is it the right time and place to adopt a new pet? It’s important to check with your landlord or with your city’s animal codes<\/a> to see if you’re limited to a certain amount of animals per household.<\/p>\n “People need to consider where they live. Are you an apartment, or a townhome or a homeowners’ association that doesn’t allow pets? Or do they have a limitation on size and breeds?” Van Zante said.<\/p>\n Do you have a quiet home, or will it be loud? San Diego Humane Society recommends new dog owners<\/a> maintain a peaceful home environment for a few weeks in order to help their dog become accustomed to their everyday routine.<\/p>\n SDHS also has a guide on different things to consider<\/a> when adopting a cat, including the size of your home. For example, if you have a very large home, a shy cat may find a large space overwhelming.<\/p>\n Shelter pets may act differently at home compared to when you approached their kennel at the shelter. Every pet is unique and will adjust at its own pace. Studies show it takes at least 10 days<\/a> for a dog\u2019s stress hormones to come back to normal after being in a shelter for a period of time.<\/p>\n 3. Can you afford it?<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s remember that a free dog and a free cat isn\u2019t always going to be free when you start off,\u201d Van Zante said. \u201cYou\u2019re going to need food, water, food dishes, a leash, a collar. You\u2019re going to get the vaccinations and the microchip, but in a year, you\u2019re going to need to go back for a veterinary visit.\u201d<\/p>\n Owning a pet means making sure their health is also taken care of. NBC 7 Responds has some tips on how you can save money<\/a> when considering pet insurance options.<\/p>\n \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRising veterinary bills are driving up premiums, according to insurance industry experts, reports NBC 7 and Telemundo 20’s Sergio Flores.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n