Choosing a pet is a lot like finding a partner. You are selecting a family member with whom you will spend a great deal of time. When deciding what type of dog or cat to bring into your home, there are a few things that you need to consider.

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1. Visit an accredited rescue organization. People sometimes hesitate about rescuing an animal from a shelter because they believe that these animals have undesirable baggage. You need to keep in mind that the majority of animals in shelters are there due to situations beyond their control. An accredited rescue operation will never place an animal up for adoption that isn’t qualified to be placed in a forever home.

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2. Analyze your lifestyle and how you envision your pet to fit within it. If you are very active and enjoy the outdoors, you should choose a breed that likes activity and requires more exercise. If your daily routine is more laid back and includes long Netflix marathons, breeds more suitable for couch time might work for you. Shelter workers are in tune with the dogs in their care. Tell them about your lifestyle so they can guide you to the right breed.

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3. If you have small children, or other pets, make sure that you choose an animal that is patient and calm. It is important that when introducing a new furry family member, it gets along with the existing members of the family, especially when interacting with children. Don’t make a solid commitment on adoption until you’re positive it’s a match for everyone involved.