Are you ready for a new friend?

By Scott A. Drake
PGN Contributor
© Philadelphia Gay News

There are no hard and fast rules when considering the adoption of a pet after saying goodbye to one that has been a companion for many years. Some days, the thought of bringing home a new puppy or kitten can be tempting; other days, it is unthinkable. During the past 16 months, I have had to part with my own two dogs of over 18 years and found that there are many things to do and consider before taking in a new family member.

Take time to grieve and recover. The length of time any person spends in grief and recovery varies, but going out and replacing Lady too quickly is not fair to either you or your new companion. It will never be the same. Pets have personalities and are as unique as people. Getting a new kitten or puppy might be fun, but does it honor and respect the years of unconditional love of your lost pet?

Explore your emotions. How much do you miss the companionship of a cat or dog around the house when you get home? Are you content for now to not have to housebreak or walk a dog several times a day under a variety of weather conditions? Do you have a more flexible work schedule and social life now without the responsibilities at home? Are the costs of the vet, food and other necessities a consideration? Do you long for that unconditional purr or the wag of a tail that you can now only get when you visit pet-owning friends or the park?

Consider the home environment. Chances are, the last time you brought home a new animal, things were different. Your former home may have been larger or smaller than where you are now. Are you considering a move in the next few years that may cause you to lose or add a yard? Children, partners or roommates may need to be considered before introducing a new animal element. Are there any other pets that may or may not readily accept an intruder? Just as easily as one pet may be added to a household, an alpha-type dog or cat that has had the house to him/herself for some time is important to consider.

Age, life history and disabilities are factors. Sometimes housebreaking a puppy, the mischievousness of a kitten or the sheer energy and attention required for either should be thought through before you bring home a young pet. There are adult dogs and cats that need homes simply because someone could no longer care for them for whatever reason. If you have the space, greyhounds that are past racing prime are another option. Maybe an older pet that needs special attention could be welcomed to spend their remaining years in a loving home.

Opening your home and your heart to an animal has many rewards that can be forgotten while you are still missing your most recent pet. The pain and tears that accompanied the loss of a beloved companion can resurface for weeks and even months. There are two other options to adoption that may help the recovery and decision process: volunteering at a local shelter and becoming a foster home. Many underfunded shelters welcome volunteers who help feed, bathe, walk and play with found strays or abandoned animals. Alternately, some shelters will allow a person to take in a dog or cat temporarily while they find it a permanent home.

Just remember: Love shows up when least expected, and it could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.