So you think you’re ready to adopt a pet. Maybe you’re longing for a dog to join you on rambles around parks and trails in Gilbert. Or maybe you want a cuddly kitten to curl up with while you watch your favorite shows. Pets are adorable, and loving, and they enrich our lives every single day. But they’re also a major responsibility. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning on adopting your first pet.
Important Questions to Ask Before You Adopt a Pet
Before you rush headlong into the adoption process, you need to make sure you’ll be able to care for a pet long-term. Most dogs live at least ten years, and cats can live up to twenty, so adopting a pet is a big commitment.
Here are a few key questions to ask yourself if you think you’re ready to adopt:
- What is my monthly budget for food, supplies, and medical care?
- How much time do I have a day to dedicate to pet care?
- What kind of physical activity can I reasonably do every day?
- How big of a pet can my home support?
- Will there be others in my home when I am not?
- How often do I travel?
Budget
Understanding your budget and its constraints can help you decide what size pet to get. Large animals will eat far more food than smaller ones. And an older pet might need more veterinary care than a young adult. Here’s a handy calculator you can use to figure out the cost of pet care in Arizona.
Size of Pet
If you want to adopt a dog, you need to be prepared to walk them at least twice a day. High-energy dogs will require more exercise and might even need jogs and runs. If you have limited mobility, you will want to look for a pet with lower energy. That way the exercise you can provide them will be enough.
Space in Your Home
Depending on the space you have, you might also want to think about the size of the pet you’re getting. Small apartments, especially if you are unable to exercise them outside for long periods of time, are not a good fit for a large dog.
Time Spent at Home
How often you’re at home matters, too. Cats might be able to get by if your work schedule means you’re gone all day, but dogs will need a sitter to take them out for walks and bathroom breaks.
Travel
Knowing how much you travel will also dictate what kind of pet is right for your family. Smaller animals are perfect for taking on airlines that allow them. While a larger pet may need to stay home and be cared for by a sitter.
Housemates
If you live with other people, like roommates, partners, children, or other family members, be sure to include them in the conversation. Not everyone may be as excited as you or ready to share their home with a pet.
New Pet Checklist: What to Buy at the Pet Store
Before you bring a new pet home, you’ll need to go shopping for a few basics. That way you’ll have everything set up and ready to go for your new pet.
- Litter box (for cats)
- Pee pads (for puppies until housetrained)
- Pet food (kibble, wet food, treats)
- Food and water bowls
- Leash and harness (Not just for dogs! You can actually walk your cat if you’re inclined)
- Breakaway collar and an ID badge
- Toys
- Pet bed
- Travel carrier or crate (for bringing your new pet home!)
Where to Adopt a Pet in Maricopa County
Now that you’re ready for a new pet, it’s time to go visit some adoption shelters. It’s always a good idea to meet pets in person so you can see how they react to you. Remember to ask questions! The people who have been caring for these pets know their personalities and can help you find the best match.
Try not to get hopes up too high if you’ve been looking online before you go to the shelter. Pets featured on the adoption page tend to find homes more quickly, but don’t worry, there will be many other pets to meet!
And remember, you might not be able to bring your new pet home the day you meet. Every organization has different rules about adopting pets. Some may ask you to provide references, go through a short waiting period, have a home visit, or even require fostering first.
Here’s how to find a pet in the Gilbert area:
- If you live in Maricopa County, you can adopt a pet through the county. They have three locations, and available pets can be viewed online, too.
- Local Humane Societies will also have an online system to view their available pets, and they often have volunteers to answer your questions while there.
- Petfinder and similar sites are online sites that allow you to find pets being put up for adoption through private parties. This can be tricky as you never know the conditions the animal may be in, and sometimes they do not allow meet-and-greets. If you encounter any inhumane conditions, document what you can safely and discreetly, and report them to the proper authorities.
The Next Step Is Your Pet’s First Vet Appointment
If you are adopting a new pet they will need veterinarian care no matter what. Even if you adopted from a shelter, finding a local vet should be your next priority. And new pet parents are always welcome at East Valley Animal Hospital.
We offer a complete range of veterinary services, and we are also a fear-free certified practice. If you’re looking for veterinary care in Gilbert, please give us a call to make an appointment.
Photo by Ana Soares on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/24/26.