Adopting gives a rescued animal a home and frees space for another in need. Plan for a commitment of 10 to 15 years.
Before you adopt
- Check that everyone at home agrees, and that your housing allows pets.
- Think about time, space and cost: food, vet care, vaccinations and care when you travel.
- Consider an Indian (indie) dog or cat. They are hardy, adapt well and are the animals most often waiting for homes.
Where to adopt
- Shelters and rescue groups in the directory, and adoption days listed under Opportunities.
- If you buy instead, use only a pet shop or breeder registered with the State Animal Welfare Board (Pet Shop Rules, Dog Breeding Rules).
The first weeks
- Visit a vet in the first week for a health check, deworming and vaccinations, including anti-rabies.
- Sterilise your pet when the vet advises. It prevents unwanted litters and some illnesses.
- Give a new animal a quiet corner, a routine and patience. Settling in can take a few weeks.
- Keep the adoption agreement and vaccination records safe.
If it doesn’t work out
- Never abandon an animal; abandonment is cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Contact the shelter or rescuer you adopted from.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and court orders change; check the Library and the original documents.