The Six Keys to a Successful Pet Relationship

Building the Foundation of a Rewarding Pet Relationship

In partnership with our other program, Slow the Shelter Flow, The Six Keys to a Successful Pet Relationship program has been developed to assist those who are considering bringing home a pet. These guidelines will help them make the right choice for them as well as for the pet. These Six Keys grew from a list of what most pet owners should know and consider before bringing their pet home. The items in the list fit into six separate categories, which has now become the Six Keys. If a potential pet owner takes the time to seriously consider each of these Keys, the chances of a successful relationship with the pet is much higher, as they will have looked at their own life situation and matched it up with an appropriate type of pet. Too many times, people enter into a relationship with a pet that does not fit into their home, their lifestyle, their personality, or their financial situation. And, what is often not taken into consideration, is the commitment, consideration, and time that each pet will require from the owner over any number of years.

The Six Keys fall into each of the following categories:

Commitment – Every pet owner should be willing and able to make the commitment to nurture, feed, train and care for their chosen pet over the lifetime of that pet, be it one year or 40. Without that commitment to the pet, the chances of that pet still residing in their original home is small.

You and Your Family – The personalities and situations of those people who own and live with the potential pet must be seriously considered to assure a successful relationship for the lifetime of the pet.

Financial and Living Situation – The financial and living situation can have an important influence on what type of pet is brought into the home. As not all pets fit into every situation, it is important for the prospective pet owners to consider these two categories in order to make the best choices.

Research Your Chosen Pet – After accessing and understanding what type of pet may fit into the pet owner's life and home, it is important to take the time to fully research the traits, personalities and requirements that the potential pet has to further ensure that it is a good fit.

Locating Responsible Source – Just as important as deciding on the right type of pet, locating a responsible source also can determine the success or failure of the new relationship. Being aware of the background and health of the new pet can help tremendously towards a sustainable relationship.

Living With the Pet – Once the pet is brought home, it will require regular, daily care. If the pet owner is prepared to provide the best possible care, take the time to learn about the particular traits of the pet and how best to work with them, and remains dedicated to the pet, the potential of a long and rewarding relationship is excellent.

It is the firm belief here at Its DogGone Awesome that if new pet owners enter into the pet relationship with knowledge and foresight, the opportunity of a rich and fulfilling relationship has a solid chance to develop. Pets that are chosen with serious consideration will have a better chance of staying in their homes throughout their lifetime.