If you are thinking of welcoming a new pet into your home, it's important to realize the tremendous responsibility you are taking on - in some cases, a 15-year commitment. To ensure all our residents find permanent, responsible homes we recommend carefully considering the following questions before adopting.

Why do you want a pet?

Ideally, you adopt because you want a long-term household companion or a cherished, new family member. If you are adopting as a gift, think again. Pets do not make good gifts.

Have you had animals before? What happened to them?

If you haven't owned a pet before, make sure you are aware of the considerable expense and responsibility involved in caring for pets, including time, food, and veterinarian costs. If you have had animals stolen, hit by cars, lost, or given away, think carefully before adopting again.

Is someone home during the day?

Animals accustomed to lots of companionship may become frantic or even destructive when left alone for long periods of time. Puppies need to be fed three to four times a day and need careful attention during housebreaking. Even adult dogs should be walked several times a day.

Is your lifestyle right for a pet?

If you travel, what will happen? Arrangements must be made for your pet if you travel - even if you away for only a day or two. What will happen to your pet if you move?

Where will the animal live?

If you intend to keep them in a dog house, garage, or basement, is that really the best environment for your new friend? Free roaming animals can pick up diseases from other animals and face dangers posed by wildlife, traffic, and cruel people.

Do you rent or own your home?

If you rent, does your lease permit animals? Thousands of animals are given up after owners discover their tenants own a dog. Research your options before you adopt.

Who else lives in your home?

Make sure that all family members want a pet. Determine the ages of any children and the appropriateness of the pet you are considering. Everyone should be included in the decision process and individual responsibilities decided upon before adopting.

The AWS Shelter Manager and Staff are available to help you in deciding what type of animal will best meet your lifestyle and current living environment. We welcome and encourage any questions you may have regarding any of our current resident pets. We can share what we know about a particular animal's  temperament and how that may fit into your adoption decision.