Owning a pet can be a wonderful experience. However, it’s also a serious responsibility. Pet ownership is an important life decision and some people even liken it to caring for a child. If you’re thinking of getting a pet, it’s always encouraged to #adoptdontshop. While you may assume that buying a pet is slightly more straightforward, the adoption process can be just as simple.

Adopting a pet from a shelter is also a slightly more affordable option as opposed to purchasing one. Most importantly, adopting a pet gives them a chance to experience the love they deserve.

If you’ve decided to adopt a pet, one of the most straightforward and convenient ways to do so is to visit an animal shelter. With the abundance of shelters in Singapore, you will be able to carefully select a pet you truly connect with. Despite their traumatic past, pets in these shelters are just as capable of love and affection as every other pet.

You may opt to drop by the shelters during their tours or visiting periods to get up close and personal with the pets and in the process, meet the one you’re keen to bring home. Apart from selecting a pet that you’re keen to add to your family, adopting from shelters also require you to fill in a set of basic paperwork. These shelters include SOSD Singapore, Action for Singapore Dogs, House Rabbit Society Singapore and Cat Welfare Society.

On the other hand, you may also opt to adopt a pet from a family or friend. If your family or friend has an expectant pet, they may most likely be searching for forever homes for the newborns. If you’re keen on raising a pet from birth, this may be your best option.

Alternatively, if your family or friends are looking for parents for their existing pets, this is another form of adoption as it prevents the pet from going into shelters. Be sure to fill in the legalities of owning a pet and ensure that your new pet has a visit to the vets in Singapore.

However, if you’re not as certain as you should be, take a step back from going into adoption. Instead, consider fostering. Though fostering is a short-term commitment, it allows you to experience the life of a pawrent. For that period, the full responsibility of the pet is yours. This experience will enable you to assess your capabilities of being a pawrent and to help you make a firmer decision.