sources to find a pet

When you have decided on the animal you want, you will still have some work to do before you settle on the individual. Everybody knows that you can find some kittens, puppies, ferrets or goldfish at almost any large pet store, but it is not your only option. Knowing all the options available will help you to choose the perfect companion from the best possible source.

For pets in general

Large area chain stores usually have a few of every kind of animal, but you are maybe looking to buy only one kind. You may find a larger selection, at lower prices, and a more knowledgeable sales staff is you seek out a smaller pet store that specializes in that kind of pet. Take your phone book and call to find out which stores specialize in the type of animal you are looking for.

The prices of pets vary widely. To make sure you get the best price and the best quality pet, contact several breeders and the nearest animal shelter before you buy. Visit each one to compare prices, health guarantees, and the quality of the individual pets before you decide on the right source for your new companion.

You should not look a gift horse in the mouth, but you should look carefully at any animal offered to you for free. Owners who want to hastily get rid of a retired show cat/dog or young reptile probably know something about the animal's health and temperament that you do not. Before you consider adopting a bargain pet, ask the owner for the name and number of his vet, then call him. That way, you can have a medical history and make sure you will not have any surprise health bills.

People think that animal breeders can be found everywhere, but a very good animal breeder can be hard to find. Many of them operate on a word-to-mouth basis. One way to find a list of good breeders is to call your local veterinarian and ask for a copy of the area pet directory. It is a listing of breeders in your area, as well as breed hobbyists who occasionally have one or two animals for sale. Many veterinarians keep pet directories on hand, and so do Humane Societies and animal shelters.

If you are trying to find sources for pets, get on the World Wide Web search engine and type in the breed of the animal you are looking for. By now, nearly every breed has a web page maintained by an official club or organization or by an enthusiastic breeder.

If your family includes children, leave them at home the first time you visit each breeder or pet store. Children can bond instantly to animals, and when they do, they will be very insistent. You need time alone with the breeder or salesperson to ask specific questions about the history of an animal you are considering to adopt and how to care for him. You also should visit several shops before you decide where to buy your pet. Once you have made your choice, you can bring your children in to help choose from the litter.

For cats and dogs

If you are looking for a specific breed of cat, contact the Cat Fanciers'Association. Be aware that the CFA does not screen the list. You will have to do that yourself.

If you are not sure whether you want to adopt a particular breed of cat/dog, do additional research by calling a national breed organization. Each of these clubs collects and distributes information about a particular breed of cat/dog. They have lists of reputable breeders and they can provide information about diseases and disorders common to a particular breed. One easy way to do this is to search the Internet for the organization's name.

To evaluate a particular breed of cat or dog and to find a good breeder, try attending a cat or dog show in your area. Shows are like conventions for breeders, who gather to compete and to share information. They also bring their business cards and they are available to answer questions about the breed. Touring the grooming area is a good way to meet and interview a number of breeders without the pressure of having to buy a cat or dog on the spot. In fact, if someone tries to sell you an animal right there at the show, do not buy and do not trust the breeder.

For dogs

If you are looking for a fairly big dog who is quiet and devoted, you might want to consider a retired greyhound racing dog. In the past few years, dozens of groups have sprung up all over the world to rescue and place these gentle dogs after their racing days are over. The dogs who come up for adoption are available only through Greyhound Rescue Leagues. The dogs are usually four to five-years-old and they are too slow to be winners.

If you would like to adopt a well-behaved older dog, look for a failed service dog. All over the world, organizations train dogs to aid the blind or hearing impaired. Trainers spend at least five months giving extensive obedience training to these dogs, but not every dog goes on to become a working dog. Some dogs may have a slight physical defect or some behavioural problem that is harmless as a fear of crossing the street. These dogs are still well-trained, lovable and they need a home once their training ends.

In this chapter

Introduction Adopting a pet House Budget Matters of time Type of pets

Other considerations Evaluating a seller Evaluating a pet Best season to adopt

Finalizing the adoption

Following chapters

Finally at home Health & care Behaviour Living together

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