The Pet Guardian's Vow

" I promise to be your best friend, to respect and support you, to be patient with you, to work together with you to achieve those things that are important to us, to accept you unconditionally, and to share my life with you until death do us part ! "

Am I Ready?

Are you ready to make a lifetime commitment (the lifetime of the animal)?

1. Are you ready to make this vow:  "I will love and respect you for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, until death do us part."  Think about this carefully before making a decision. 

2. Millions of homeless cats and dogs end up in shelters all over the US every year.  Most of them are killed within one week and not only the mix-breeds. 35% of all shelter animals are homeless pure breeds, that makes several hundred thousands purebred animals that are killed.  Non-kill shelters like ours end up too crowded and can’t take in enough of those poor abandoned animals.  The sad stories are endless, and we don’t want them repeated. So this time it has to be for keeps!  Do your homework first!  Read these questions and answer them honestly. Include every member of the household in this, they too have to like the new family member.

    

3.  For how long do you think you will want this new companion?

4. Dogs can live up to 20 years, and cats have been known to live 25 and more years.

5. Do you have the patience and time to try to understand his communication?  Will you train him with love and treats instead of harsh words?  Animals especially dogs are happier, when they know what is expected of them. Take the time to train, there are many good dog schools at pretty reasonable prices. Pick a kind and understanding trainer.

6. How old are the children in your household?

7. Small and young cats and dogs have very sharp teeth and claws, and may lash out when teased.

8. Small dogs and cats are often too delicate for exuberant toddlers, and large dogs can knock a child over.  Some dogs, even small breeds can be very domineering and need strict training.

9. Does anyone in your household have allergies?  Try to spend some time with a similar pet before choosing yours.

10. Are you willing to carry the ultimate responsibility for the animal, even though, he is for your child. Pets can help teach children responsibility and loyalty, but it is a learning process on both sides.  A child, no matter what age, cannot be expected to always remember her responsibility.  The animal, on the other hand has a right to expect his two meals his walks and his playtime on a regular basis. Dogs and cats love routines and regular schedules.

11. When you go out of town or are sick, who will take care of your pet?

12. Is your yard fenced in? Does your lease allow pets?  Is there a sunny window for your cat to sit in? Even indoor animals need some sun.

13. Can you tolerate some damage to your furniture and floors?  It will take time before your new pet ( especially puppies) knows what is allowed and what not.

14. Are you willing to shoulder the financial responsibility?  Adoption fees are usually minimal but the cost of quality food; medical care and flea tick and heartworm control can be significant.  And don’t forget regular dental care, pets have dental problems just as much as people.

15. If you choose a puppy or kitten remember that they have to learn how to learn.  Just like toddlers they will test their limits.  Teach with kindness, patience and treats, never punish with harsh words or any sort of hitting or pushing.  If harsh treatment, abuse or neglect is suspected,  Pets Haven will take possession of the animal immediately.

16. Adult animals are usually already housebroken, know how to learn and have their full size and personality – with other words, you know what you get.  Cute little puppies can grow into 50lbs or more dogs.

17. Time to adopt?

18. Are you willing to answer questions about yourself? We ask proof of your identity and residence, name of landlord or board of directors, if you rent; name of your veterinarian, your work schedule to see if you have time to socialize and train your pet.

19. If the animal is young and still needs to be neutered, will you let us check with you to make sure that is being done?

20. When you decide on a specific animal, check on its history and take the shelter advisor or foster parents advise.  They will know the animal well enough to judge if it is suitable for your situation.

21. Everyone in your household should meet the animal and agree to the adoption.

Well, are you still in the market for one of our furry babies?

Yes?  Then be heartily welcomed and go to our Dogs or Cats pages and see if you can find your perfect match and then go to Adoption Application.

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