Making the right choice in adopting/acquiring a puppy

I am fairly optimistic that many of our readers, having read last week’s column, are giving positive consideration to adopting/acquiring a puppy (or even an adult or elderly dog) for the benefit of their families.

The immediate questions that arise are:

Q: Where can I get such an animal?

A: You, the potential canine caregiver, will have to decide whether you prefer to adopt/purchase a purebred dog (e.g. a German Shepherd, a Rottweiler, a Bichon Frise, Poodle, a Chihuahua), or would be satisfied with a happy, although abandoned, common breed dog.
We will return shortly to discuss the compatibility of your choice of breed relative to your home accommodation circumstances. It would be ill-advised to acquire a Rottweiler, which potentially grows into a 100-pound canine Goliath, if you live in a small apartment without yard space, and with thin walls separating your home from those of your neighbours.
My first reaction to the query associated with the source of the adoptee is: turn to your veterinarian for advice on the matter. He/she could/would point you in the direction of a bona fide breeder. I say this tongue-in-cheek, because I am not totally convinced of the existence of kennel clubs/registered dog breeding establishments, nor about rules in Guyana governing the registration of such entities and dog breeders.
Consequently, I advise, especially if you are a first-time care giver, that you visit the GSPCA’s Bourda Animal Shelter and discuss the issue of adoption with the management. If during your first visit you do not find a compatible pet, then visit the shelter 2/3 weeks later. There is no rush. The important consideration is that the adopted animal is becoming a new member of its forever family. We do not wish to have a revolving door situation in which you take home the animal then you return it because it is incompatible with your family’s hopes and desires when you decided – as a family – to adopt a pet.
In essence, an important part of the decision-making process is to know what you want from the adopted companion animal, and how it will fit into your lifestyle and those of your other family members.

Q: Are there other shelters other than the GSPCA?

A: The GSPCA’s shelter has been in existence for decades. The rules associated with the adoption process are well established, and tested and proven – including follow-up visits, etc.
However, over recent years, we have seen the emergence of noteworthy humane societies and philanthropic individuals and groups who, from most reports, are doing fabulous work. These include “Paws for a Cause”, Rosewood Foundation”, and “Tails of Hope”. All of these groups are involved in rescuing animals, and would have an inventory of animals which can be shared with potential adopters. Turn to them and the well-established and recognized GSPCA for help.
Let me hasten to caution you on being lured into purchasing from “puppy mills”, with their inbreeding activities and their totally different and possibly unworthy agendas from those of the humane societies. This is an issue that is of grave concern to veterinarians when confronted with the physical and physiological abnormalities that become more apparent as the inbred puppies grow.

Q: What are the most salient considerations involved in adoption?

A: (i) SIZE (of the adult animal) and the space needed to adequately accommodate it.
(ii) TIME: Does the caregiver have the time to adequately exercise and train the pet?
(iii) COSTS associated with keeping the animal healthy.
(iv) TREATMENT: of the pet by the persons living in the house.
(v) HEALTH of the puppy/dog at the time when the caregiver makes his or her choice to take home the prospective pet.
All five of these considerations will be expanded upon in next week’s “PET CARE” column.
In summary, the most important factors and immediate considerations prior to acquisition/adoption are that the puppy/young dog/mature dog should:

 Appear alert and energetic – not listless and tired-looking, hiding constantly in a corner.
 Be well fed, with a little fat covering the ribcage and hipbone.
 Have a smooth and shiny coat without dry, flaky skin and bald patches.
 Walk and run around playfully, and without limping.
 Have no watery, discoloured discharge from the eyes, nose and ears.
 Follow a tossed toy with its eyes.
 Exhibit no coughing, sneezing, or breathing distress.
 Exhibit no signs of anaemia (e.g., pale gums)
 Not vomiting or having diarrhoea
Puppies, in particular, should be comfortable when handled. Try holding the pup, touching its ears, mouth and paws. If the pup responds to this manipulation by becoming aggressive or struggles away, it might have some underlying ailment, or might never develop the temperament to snuggle up with you on the couch, or allow you to clip its toenails.
Choosing a healthy pup/dog with a pleasant disposition would increase the chances of raising a pet that would be a good fit for your household, and become your best friend for years to come.