The Six Keys to a Successful Pet Relationship
Building the Foundation of a Rewarding Pet Relationship
The Six Keys to a Successful Pet Relationship was developed in partnership with our Slow the Shelter Flow mission to help people make thoughtful, informed decisions before bringing a pet home.
Too often, people choose a pet based on impulse or emotion — without fully considering whether that pet fits their home, lifestyle, personality, or financial situation. The Six Keys are designed to change that. Each one addresses a category of consideration that, when taken seriously, significantly increases the chances of a successful, lasting relationship between a person and their pet.
If a prospective pet owner works through each of these Keys honestly, they will have a much clearer picture of what type of pet is right for them — and what that commitment will actually look like over the lifetime of the animal.
The Six Keys
Every pet owner should be willing and able to commit to nurturing, feeding, training, and caring for their chosen pet over that animal's entire lifetime — whether that's one year or forty. Without that commitment, the chances of a pet remaining in its original home are small. This key asks prospective owners to honestly assess whether they are truly ready for that responsibility before bringing a pet home.
The Second Key: You and Your Family
The personalities, schedules, and circumstances of everyone who lives in the home must be seriously considered before a pet is brought in. A pet that is a great fit for one person may be a poor fit for a household with young children, elderly family members, or other animals. This key helps prospective owners look honestly at their full household situation — not just their own enthusiasm.
The Third Key: Financial and Living Situation
Not every pet fits every living situation or budget. The financial and physical realities of a person's home — its size, rental restrictions, yard access, and the ongoing costs of food, veterinary care, and supplies — all play a significant role in determining which pets are realistic choices. This key encourages prospective owners to look at their situation honestly before falling in love with a pet that may not be a practical fit.
The Fourth Key: Research Your Chosen Pet
Once a prospective owner has a sense of what type of pet may fit their life, the next step is to research that animal thoroughly — its traits, temperament, energy level, social needs, lifespan, and care requirements. What looks appealing on the surface may come with demands that aren't immediately obvious. Taking the time to understand what a pet actually needs is one of the most important steps toward a successful relationship.
The Fifth Key: Locating Reliable Sources
Where a pet comes from matters. The background, health history, and early experiences of an animal can have a lasting impact on its behavior and well-being. Knowing how to identify a responsible breeder, rescue, or shelter — and what red flags to watch for — can make a significant difference in the long-term success of the relationship.
The Sixth Key: Living With Your Pet
Bringing a pet home is just the beginning. Daily care, ongoing learning, patience through challenges, and a genuine dedication to the animal's well-being are what make the relationship work over time. This key prepares prospective owners for the reality of life with a pet — not just the idea of it — so they can enter that relationship with clear eyes and a solid foundation.
It is the firm belief here at It's DogGone Awesome that when new pet owners enter into the pet relationship with knowledge and foresight, the opportunity for 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.
Before You Choose a Pet
Bringing home a pet is an exciting decision, but it is also a commitment that may last for many years. The right choice begins with an honest look at your household, lifestyle, available time, finances, expectations, and ability to meet the needs of a particular animal.
Before You Get a Pet: The Essential Questions to Ask helps prospective pet owners think through the important questions before making the commitment. Taking the time to prepare can lead to a more successful relationship, a more secure future for the pet, and a decision the entire household can feel confident about.