Why Adopt?
Choosing a pet is a life-changing decision! To begin with, the most obvious (and important!) reason, adopting a pet saves lives! At SVAPL we pride ourselves that every single healthy and adoptable animal is able to stay at our facility until they are adopted. We are able to do this because of our wonderful adopters. In adopting a pet, you not only give that pet a brighter future, you also create a precious shelter space for another animal to begin the story of their own happy ending. Adoption starts your pet on the path to a healthy future. Prior to becoming available for adoption, all animals are given a full health exam by a veterinarian and are treated for any health conditions they may have. In addition, all cats and dogs are spayed or neutered and also receive their first shots.
Questions to ask yourself before adopting a pet…
- Will you be a responsible pet owner?
Will you ensure your pet is spayed/neutered (to reduce the problem of pet overpopulation), ensure they have ID (should they get lost they can more easily be returned to you), provide them with vet care, food water, shelter, love, exercise, training, growing and nail care? Will you abide by town bylaws regarding your pet (licensing, picking up after your dog, etc)? - What are your living arrangements?
Do you own your own home or are you renting? Know that moving frequently can be stressful for pets. Does your landlord allow pets at the rental property? Do you have enough space and a fenced yard? - What is your lifestyle and do you have time for a pet?
Ensure the personality of the breed you want to get matches your own. Animals require varying amounts of time. Depending on the animal, and even the breed, how much time do you have to dedicate to walking, training and exercising? - Is it the right time for a pet, and can you afford it?
Are you planning a move or going back to school or work? Do you have kids or are you expecting? Will something in your life affect the introduction of a pet into your home? If so, maybe it is not the right time. Are you able to afford the costs of pet care? The average cost for dogs annually is $1,550 (not including one-time costs such as adoption fees, spaying, microchipping etc.) and the average for cats is $850 annually. Also, remember the replacement costs of things such as your favourite shoes. - Who will be responsible for the pet?
Understand that a family pet is a family decision and children will not take on all of the duties involving the pet, even though they will be enthusiastic at first! It is recommended for children to be at least seven years old to actively take part in pet care.
Choosing a Pet
Please contact us and come see the animals we have. Take your time choosing your new pet. Ask lots of questions! When you are with the animal please speak softly and avoid sudden movements. Our pets are already under a lot of stress and you want to see them at their best.