Esme Wheeler, from the RSPCA’s companion animals department in Sussex, has shared her top tips to consider when welcoming a canine companion into your family.
She said: “Getting any pet is a big commitment which comes with huge responsibility and it is not something to do on impulse.
"We advise people to think very carefully before adopting a pet, as understanding what your pet needs to ensure they live a happy and healthy life is vital.
“However, once you have thought thoroughly about it and if you decide it is the right decision, then rehoming a dog through the RSPCA is an incredibly rewarding experience and you will be doing such a good thing giving the rescue dog you adopt a second chance at a new life.”
You can see some of the dogs currently looking for loving homes in Sussex here.
5. Have a meet and greet
If you see a dog on the RSPCA website you would like to adopt, and if the dog fits your lifestyle, arrange to meet them at the centre. Some of our centres prefer more than one meet and greet to ensure that the adoption will be a success. The last thing we want - and you - is for the dog to come back into RSPCA care because the adoption hasn’t worked out. Photo: Zigmars Berzins from Pixabay
6. Consider the cost
Getting a pet will bring loads of joy, but before committing you should know that costs can vary - a lot. There is pet insurance, vet bills, dog-walking/dog-sitting and food to consider - not forgetting toys and other enrichment for your dog. Photo: Elena Rogulina from Pixabay
7. Bonus tip: Don’t rule out older dogs!
There are many older dogs out there who need new homes who may sometimes be overlooked, but they have just as much love to give. Photo: Robert Hell from Pixabay