Pet Adoption Checklist
Table of Contents
Pet Type Selection
Decide if you want a pet to be your quiet companion, or to participate actively in your life
Consider your living arrangements and any regulations on what kind of animals are allowed
Take into account any allergies or health issues that might make some pets an unwise choice
Figure out what sort of pet your work or school schedule will accommodate
Get Background
Ask where the pet you are considering came from and avoid illegal or questionable sources
Find out about the pet's parents if possible, as well as any genetic issues
Request proof of vaccinations and other preventive medical treatment
If possible, have a veterinarian check out the animal and obtain a clean bill of health
Pet-Proof Your Home
Ensure that all electrical cords are out of your pet's reach
Remove any small items that could lead to choking, and any items that could be easily destroyed
Make the yard secure if your pet will be allowed outdoors
Lay in supplies
Obtain the necessary cage or shelter for your pet, if needed
Select healthy food, treats and/or supplements for your new pet
Purchase accessories such as toys, collars/leashes, food and water bowls, and hygienic items
Buy a book about your pet to inform yourself about its care
Extra Care
Arrange for grooming services if needed
Call a veterinarian to schedule checkups/neutering if needed
Purchase a pet health insurance if applicable
Tag, tattoo or microchip your pet if possible to safeguard against loss
Sign up for a pet training course if applicable
Hire a dog walker if necessary
Select a boarding facility in case you go out of town
Download or Print this Pet Adoption Checklist
Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.
Presented by:
Nicole Nichols-West
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Details
Getting a new pet is an exciting event, but with the excitement comes responsibility. Whether your pet is a cat, dog, bird, fish, lizard, hamster or any other type of domesticated animal, there are things you will need to consider carefully before introducing them into your home. The pros and cons must be weighed, and preparations made ahead of time before bringing your new pet home. You want the addition of a new pet to your family to be stress and worry free, and for everyone affected by the decision to have some input. The following checklist will give you an idea of the preparations that will need to be made for bringing your new pet home.
Tips
Impulse purchases or adoptions of pets from unknown sources can cause heartbreak and significant expenses down the road if it turns out your new pet has an illness or disease that you did not know about. Jumping into pet ownership unprepared can result in damage to property, and even liability if your new pet escapes and engages in destructive or aggressive behavior.
Covering all your bases as far as liability is concerned means planning in advance and taking all necessary precautions to properly control your new pet.
Think about the long term ramifications of your decision to adopt or buy an animal. The lifespan of the pet, its possible health care needs and daily care will need to be taken care of as long as you own it.
There will be ongoing expenses in the form of food and healthcare, and possible other costs for grooming or boarding if you have to go out of town. If you can only afford to spend a certain amount on pet care each month, you will need to select a pet whose needs won't overtax your ability to meet them.
Who it's for
This Pet Adoption Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Pet Adoption essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Pet Adoption structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Pet Adoption Checklist
- Save Pet Adoption Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Pet Adoption (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.