Choosing Your Cat

Many people go to the local animal shelter to look at kittens and cats and just get overwhelmed with the variations and age ranges.

So how do you choose? 

I’m sure a lot of families will pick the cutest, most outgoing play full cat or the one who purrs the most when you hold them. Love at first sight is all good and wonderful but there are other things to consider before you bring home a new pet that will probably be a family member for 10 to 20 year or more.

Adopting a kitten versus an adult or mature cat

Kittens are more fragile and can more easily get injured by other pets or children.
Kittens can be very active and mischievous.
Kittens are sometimes clumsy and may get under foot, fall off furniture and require more attention.
Adult Cats are normally better able to escape from other family pets and rambunctious kids.
Adult Cats are normally calmer, more relaxed & less likely to get into trouble.
Adult Cats are normally more aware of its surroundings, making them able to avoid dangers & problems in a new home.

Short-haired cat or Long-haired cat breed?

When choosing between a short-haired cat and one with long hair, think about these practical considerations first.

• Frequent grooming of long-haired cats is a necessity to keep them mat free.
• All cats will need to be brushed, but with longhair breeds much more frequently than shorter hair breeds. So if you don’t have the time for daily grooming, you may prefer a short-haired variety.
• Most cats actually enjoy grooming, but not all cats the patience or tolerance to sit there and be brushed for long periods of time.
• But if a long-haired cat is your choice, that’s great. We are just making sure that you are informed and prepared for the care and upkeep it will require.

Here are a few links to that will have photos and more information on various breeds.

Catster Cat Breed Directory
The International Cat Association TICA Breed Directory
The Cat Fanciers’ Association  Characteristics and Personalities

Choosing Your Dog

Thinking about adding a wonderful shelter or rescue dog to your family? Be sure to do your research before choosing your new dog.

Here are a few links to articles and guides to help you choose your new shelter pet.

Petfinder Tips

At the Shelter: Choosing the Right Dog, The shelter visit

Although it’s best to avoid preconceptions about what model of dog you are looking for, Sternberg advises that it is very important to know what to look for behaviorally. ‘A high level of sociability will contribute more to a dog’s success in a home than any other trait, Sternberg says. ‘Overall, be looking for a dog that really likes people and wants to be with them, who is affectionate, congenial, and bonds easily and strongly. These are the dogs who are the most fun, and the least worry to live with. Stand firm on this behavior criteria as you progress through Sternberg’s 12-step program for adoption success.

Purina help guide

Consider your lifestyle and determine the size, temperament, and grooming and exercise needs of a dog that would work best for you. If you’re an active family, you may opt for a high-energy dog. Or, if you live in an apartment or small house, perhaps you’d prefer a small dog. Do you have the time and money to devote to grooming your new dog? If not, a wash-and-wear dog may be best. Families with children should select a breed appropriate for their children’s ages. For example, rambunctious children may be too active for a toy dog, and small children may become underfoot of a giant breed. In any case, families with children will likely want an intelligent, patient dog that is obedient and can be easily trained. Regardless of your lifestyle, the best dogs for families are breeds known for being loyal, loving companions. Some families also look for dogs with natural protection or guarding instincts.

IAMS Breed Selector tool

From large and quiet to small and rambunctious – dogs come in every shape, size, and temperament. So get ready to make the process of finding a new four-legged friend a little easier by using our dog breed selector tool.

Eukanuba BreedMatch

Learn about hundreds of dog breeds and their history, temperaments, standards, and special needs.

AKC  Finding the right breed 

Every dog has a distinct personality based on its breed. With 175 AKC-recognized breeds to choose from, doing your research is essential to finding the right breed for your lifestyle and a lifetime of happiness!

Learn about a breed’s temperament, size, grooming style and exercise needs.