Adopting a new dog is a big, exciting, daunting decision.

Dogs truly become members of the family and fill our lives with excitement, love, and fun. If you and your family are looking into buying or adopting a new dog, there’s a lot to consider, especially when doing so online. Luckily, we at Pet Shield are here to help! Here are the top 10 things to consider when adding a new dog to the family:

  • Take your time making the decision.

Adopting or buying a dog is lifechanging and thrilling – it’s easy to rush into, and making a snap decision can be very tempting after an adorable little puppy catches your eye. However, it’s worth it in the long run, for both you and your pup, to put a great deal of time and consideration towards this choice. Think about your current home, life, family, and how a dog will fit into this equation. Then you can start planning!

 

  • Research and planning are key.

Have you planned and budgeted for all your upcoming expenses, including pet insurance, vaccinations, dental care, and spaying/neutering? Tags and microchipping are also extremely important. Even the cost of food adds up! Taking the time to plan and create a budget for these expenses will make the process that much easier for you, will help guarantee your dog’s comfort and safety, and will give you more time to focus on bonding and training once your dog arrives. Remember, you’ll need to set aside time, as well as money, when welcoming your new pet to the family.

 

  • Find out where the puppy or dog was raised.

It’s important to be aware of your new dog’s background as you welcome them into your family and make decisions about their training and care. Your dog’s story and behaviour will differ depending where they came from: a reputable breeder, rescue organization, or a local shelter run by your municipality or local humane society.

 

  • Ask to receive a copy of the puppy or dog’s vaccination records and other medical history.

This information is also crucial. Not only will it factor into your planning and budget, but you’ll also be able to learn more about the overall health of your new pup. You don’t want any unexpected or unwelcome surprises after your pet has joined the family.

 

  • If possible, ask to see the puppy and at least one of the parents beforehand, even virtually.

“Meeting the parents” is usually pretty nerve-wracking, but in this case, it’s way more fun! This is also a useful step in ensuring that the seller or rescue organization is legitimate, and no fraud is taking place. It can also be such a treat to see your special pup and get acquainted before you bring them home.

  • Be on time to pick them up, or make appropriate arrangements if you’re unable.

This is a big day that you shouldn’t miss if you can take part! Not only will it give you the chance to further discuss your new dog’s background, ask any questions you may have, and (possibly) see the dog’s parents in person, you’ll also get to experience those important and memorable first moments with your dog, and start bonding right away.

 

  • Don’t assume the seller is legitimate. They should ask about your experience with dogs to help match you with the right companion.

Reputable dog breeders, rescue organizations, and local shelters should all offer thorough information, consideration, and care when dealing with both their animals, and people hoping to adopt. The best scenario is a seller and buyer who are both extremely considerate of the animals in care, treating these animals well, and ensuring the transition is as smooth and safe as possible for them.

 

  • Ask about policies for financial assistance if health issues are found after buying or adopting, and medical bills arise.

Though we can hope for the best, it’s useful to ask these questions as a just-in-case measure. You can also ask about policies on returns if you feel inclined to do so. However, it’s always better to do your research beforehand, and try to be as sure as you can that you won’t need to return your new dog or give them away.

 

Remember that pet insurance, on average, costs just a few dollars a day. If medical issues arise at any point in your dog’s life, Pet Shield covers up to 80% of medical expenses, as well as additional coverage.

 

  • If your dog is imported, determine if they meet CFIA’s dog import requirements.

Those who take part in activities regulated by the CFIA are responsible for meeting the requirements found in the Health of Animals Act, the Health of Animals Regulations, and the Reportable Diseases Regulations. Anyone importing, exporting, or selling these products – even if they’re doing so on a small scale online from their home, is included in this category. Provincial and territorial requirements likely apply as well.

 

  • Make yourself aware of all Canadian import requirements. Importers who do not meet Canadian requirements may experience delays or have their shipment held at the border.

Canada has strong health requirements for imported puppies and dogs. It’s possible that dogs bred for commercial sale may have been exposed to other diseases or parasites that didn’t appear during the import. Importers are responsible for ensuring the health of animals in their care, and verifying and following import requirements before entering or re-entering the country.

There you have it! As we can see, adding a new dog to the family takes a great deal of thought, planning, and effort, but in the end, it’s worth it. There are so many reasons why dogs are humans’ best friends. Dogs can give us company, love, happiness, exercise, and improved mental health. The least we can do is make sure we offer them a good life that’s filled with the same benefits. For more information on buying or adopting a new dog, visit The Government of Canada’s puppies and dogs page, as well as its buying and adopting page.

 

The easiest way to ensure you’ll always be able to provide your pet with the care they need is through pet insurance. Check out our Plans & Coverages page for dogs to discover the best plan for you and your best friend.