Are you on the lookout for a furry friend to keep you company? Bringing a pet into your home can bring so much joy. Their playful behavior and wagging tails can really brighten your day. However, it’s important to recognize that owning a pet comes with significant responsibilities. It’s a long-term commitment, so you should think carefully before deciding to adopt.

In a recent interview with a Lifestyle Magazine, Dr. Deepak Saraswat, the Head Vet at Zigly, provided some valuable insights on how to approach pet adoption.

He mentioned, “India has one of the highest rates of pet abandonment in the world, with 50% of pet owners admitting to giving up their pets at some point. The 2024 State Pet Homelessness Project report from Mars Pet Care reveals that 70% of dogs and cats in India are homeless, making up 19% of the global homeless animal population. Many pet owners even abandon purebred dogs and cats due to social or financial issues. The cultural preference for pedigree dogs over Indian street dogs adds to the strain on already overcrowded animal shelters. Adopting a pet from a shelter or NGO in India can be a rewarding choice, but it’s essential to think it through carefully.”

Dr. Saraswat also provided a checklist to help you prepare before adopting a pet from an NGO or animal shelter.

Living with purpose and dedication

Taking care of pets means giving them daily attention and being committed for the long haul. If you're a busy professional, it's important to think about whether your lifestyle can handle the responsibility of a pet, since it's a lifelong commitment, not just a phase for their "puppy days." Make sure everyone in the family agrees with the decision to adopt. Talk about who will take on what responsibilities and consider how well a pet will fit in with kids or older family members.

Area and surroundings

Urban housing constraints can make it tough for pet adopters, especially those looking to bring in larger or more energetic breeds. Before you decide to adopt, think about how much space you have and whether it meets the needs of the pet. Also, be sure to review your housing community's policies on pets.

Being financially ready

Getting a pet is just like welcoming a new baby into your home. Make sure to plan for expenses like food, grooming, toys, routine vet visits, and any unexpected emergencies. Also, keep in mind that there might be some initial costs when adopting, which usually include vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and essential medical care.

Picking the perfect pet

This choice will help make sure you and your new furry friend are both happy and comfortable. For example, Indies are tough, loyal, smart, and adapt well to local weather. That said, their personality might be a bit tricky for first-time pet owners. On the other hand, purebreds like Huskies need a lot of care and often have a hard time with India's climate. Puppies need extra training and attention, while older pets might be more relaxed but could come with some health concerns. It's important to align your pet's energy with your lifestyle.

Healthcare and medical services

Make sure the pet is completely vaccinated, dewormed, and free of fleas and ticks before you adopt. Animals in shelters frequently deal with illnesses and infections because they haven't received proper care or vet attention. Ask the shelter for medical records and keep track of vaccination details. Plus, it's a good idea to have easy access to veterinary services near your home.

Engaging with the shelter

Before you adopt your chosen pet, make sure to visit the shelter several times to spend time with your future furry companion. This will help strengthen your bond and give you a chance to observe their personality, behavior, how they interact with people and other animals, and any past experiences they may have had.

Transition phase

It can take a while for pets to get used to their new surroundings. Give them some time to settle into their new home, routines, and family dynamics. Keep engaging with them and offering reassurance, but also respect their need for personal space during the first few days.

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