The Comprehensive Guide to Adopting a Pet

Adopting a pet is a big step — but we have a feeling your family is ready to grow. Before starting your search, get tips on choosing the right pet for your lifestyle, preparing your home for a furry family member, and even become a training expert before bringing your pet home.

For more information about pet adoption, click here.

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When You’re Ready, Start Here

Welcoming a pet into your family is a big decision, but chances are good that your life will be better than ever with the companionship of your new best friend. When you’re ready to welcome a dog or cat (or rabbit or ferret or bird) into your home, use Petfinder as your jump-off.

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All About Pet Adoption

Still on the fence about adopting? Ease into life with a pet by volunteering at your local shelter or rescue organization.

Volunteer

• How to Organize an Adoption Event In Your Community

• How Photography Can Save Pets Lives

• Volunteering with Dogs

• Great adoptable cat photos

• Volunteering with Cats

Fostering

• All About Fostering Dogs

• All About Fostering Cats

• Fostering FAQs

• Before You Foster, Ask These Questions

• How to Prepare Your Home for a Foster

Breeds

• What Kind of Dog is Right for You?

• Choosing the Right Dog

• Adopting the Right Cat for You

• Learn About Different Dog Breeds

• Learn About Different Cat Breeds

Adoption

• Dog Adoption Checklist

• All About Cat Adoption

• Cat Adoption Checklist

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Welcoming your New Pet Home

Petfinder has all the resources you need to make you be the best pet parent ever.

Bringing a Dog Home

• Tips for the First 30 Days

• Changing the Name of Your New Dog

Bringing a Cat Home

• Welcoming a New Cat Home

• The First 30 Days with your New Cat

• Where Should My Litter Box Go?

Dog Training

• Dog Training Basics

• Power of Play

• Teach Your Dog to Stay, The Fun and Easy Way

• Destructive Chewing

Cat Training

• Cat Talk: A Guide to Cat Body Language

• How to Teach a Cat Tricks

Living With Your Dog

• Tips for Owning a Big Dog in a Small Apartment

• Taking Care of a Pet When You Have Roommates

Living With Your Cat

• 9 Common Cat Myths Debunked

• How to Avoid Kitty Boredom

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