Four points to ponder

If you’re planning to bring a new pet into your home, here are some tips to guide you.

1. Looking for a purebred pet? Check the local shelter.

If you want a specific breed of dog, don’t overlook animal shelters. Of the millions of pets brought to shelters each year, many are pure breeds.

2. Match your pet to your lifestyle.

When deciding what species, size and breed of pet to adopt, it’s very important to consider lifestyle factors like the amount of space you have, how much time you spend at home, and the other people and pets who live with you. Do your homework to make sure your lifestyle will accommodate the needs of your new pet.

3. Consider the investment.

Pets need more than food, water and shelter. Dogs need regular veterinary care including annual wellness exams and vaccinations. Can you afford the care a dog needs and deserves? What if your pet develops a health problem or is injured — will you be able to provide veterinary treatment? Health insurance is available for pets, so consider purchasing a policy for yours.

4. Prepare and petproof.

Before you adopt a new dog, make sure your home is pet-friendly and safe. For example, some houseplants are toxic to pets, so make sure yours are not. Many dogs find open, accessible trash cans too tempting to resist, so keep your trash can out of reach or securely covered.

Making your pet feel at home

A pet’s living environment is very important! Take a look around your home and try to envision it from a pet’s point of view. Are there small changes you could make that would improve the space for your dog? Even minor adjustments can make a difference to your pet.

Here are just a few of the things that may be overlooked when preparing your home for your new pet.

Dogs need:

• Things they’re allowed to chew on

• Their own spot in the room the family uses most

• Something soft that smells like you

• Variety — offer different kinds of toys

• Novelty — rotate the toys and introduce new ones

Of course, this is only a partial list. Check out these online resources to learn more:

• http://www.adoptapet.com/

• http://www.aspca.org/adoption

• http://www.petfinder.com

• http://adoptions.petsmart.com/