Dogs are popular pets because they are affectionate, energetic, and responsive. They are also the most devoted companions that humans can have.
This article is an overview of the actual dog adoption process in NYC.
1. All About Dog Adoption in NYC
Dogs are very friendly and loyal animals. Thus, they are the most common pets. NYC is a pet-friendly city; many people there have dogs and cats.
There are certain things you should know before adopting a dog in NYC.
1.1. Caring Is Expensive
First, caring for a dog is expensive in NYC, so you must be sure about your finances before making any major decision.
1.2. Watch Out for the Size of Your Dog(s)
The size of your dog does matter in NYC as New Yorkers stay in tight living arrangements; thus, having bigger dogs might be challenging for the owner.
There is a rule that on subways, the owners are supposed to carry their dogs in baskets, bags, or some sort of container, irrespective of the size of their pet dog. Hence, if you’re a regular on the subway, smaller dogs are better for you if you plan to adopt soon.
1.3. Train Your Dog and Be Responsible
You can see many dog parks in NYC, where you can unleash your dog and let it play with other dogs or roam freely.
You must train your dog to behave in a social environment in the presence of strangers, such as in the park or even on the street.
You are responsible for cleaning up any kind of litter caused by your dog when you take him for a walk in NYC.
Many dog walkers can be seen in NYC, taking dogs for group or private walks, so you can keep a dog walker for your pet as well. Apart from taking the dogs on walks, the dog walkers are also responsible for cleaning your dog’s litter.
1.4. Medical Care for Dogs
Medical facilities will not be a concern for your pet as there are many veterinary clinics in New York.
You can easily find your pet’s daycare, boarding, and grooming centers. You can even get pet insurance.
1.5. Good Acquaintances
It is really important to have good acquaintances around your neighborhood or in your family who can willingly help you look after your pet when you are not around or out for work trips.
2. Process of Dog Adoption in NYC
Dog adoption in NYC is very systematic and extensive. The adoption centers check and ensure you can take care of the pet.
Adopting animals is a huge commitment, and adoption is not advised if you cannot meet the pet’s basic needs.
2.1. Application to the Adoption Center
The dog adoption process starts with you sending an application to the adoption center or rescue shelter.
2.2. Verification
You should answer important questions regarding your history with pets ( if you had any pets earlier ); you have to give 2-3 references who can expect a call for verification from the adoption center.
2.3. A Phone Interview
If your application seems favorable, they will call you for a phone interview. It almost seems like a job interview, clearly showing how systematic and important this dog adoption process is.
2.4. Financial Capability
They check your financial capability to handle the pet’s expenses along with all other expenditures.
2.5. House Visit
After the interview, they match you with the pet or, in some cases, do a house visit for inspection.
2.6. Some Things to Note
- The adoption range varies from breed to breed. One good thing about these adoption centers and shelters is that they cover all the basic vaccinations, operations (spaying/neutering), and basic pet medical needs.
- So, the adoption fees can be considered worth it as you are adopting a medically sound and healthy dog.
- Puppies and kittens are immediately picked up and have more chances of adoption.
3. Tips for Dog Adoption
Animal care organizations have active adoption programs to find proper animal homes. Adopting a dog is a huge responsibility.
3.1. Nurture Them Like Family
Different dog breeds have different nurturing needs.
It is said that a dog will love you more than anyone will ever do. They tend to become a part of your family.
Having pet dogs is like having small children around you all the time. They add color to your otherwise boring life. They light up your mood, entertain you, and make you feel valued.
3.2. Make a Schedule for Rescued Dogs
Clear your schedule before getting the dog home, as it is difficult for the dog, if he’s a rescued dog, to move from a rescue shelter to a new home.
Everything will be new for them: the people, surroundings, the schedule. It can take time to develop a bond with your new canine buddy.
He can feel uncomfortable initially, but eventually, he will start getting used to his new routine and new home.
You have to spend more time with your dog during these initial days, and it is advised to take some time off work and spend it with your new housemate.
It is said that a rescue dog takes around 2-4 days to shake off the stress of being in a shelter home.
3.3. Keep Dangerous Things Away
Clean your home properly before bringing the dog home; remove anything that can be dangerous or that can potentially cause any injury to your pet.
Keep away things that can lead to choking hazards, such as the dog’s habit of chewing things (especially if he’s a puppy).
So keep things like chemicals, sharp objects, and cleansing products out of your pet’s reach, and make sure he’s all safe.
3.4. Things While House Training
While house training your dog, give him small treats and show him that he’s doing all good and he’s a good dog; by doing so, he will be a well-mannered dog and a happy dog.
Try to take them out for walks more frequently during the initial days.
Ending Notes
Dogs love you, care for you, stay loyal to you, and make your life mesmerizing just by existing.
Rescue dogs need our love and attention, too. Dog Adoption in NYC inspires and motivates us to adopt more of them, especially the rescued ones because everyone and our adorable canine friends deserve second chances.
Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology
