• Expect Some Accidents
  It may take your new pet some time before it knows that your home is their home. Expect some accidents and just let them go. Getting angry at the pet will not help the situation; instead it will make your new friend scared of you. If you have adopted a dog, get the pet on a routine of going out for potty breaks.
• What Pet Food Should I Use?
  If you want your new friend to have a long life, you should use a high quality pet food like Hill's Science Diet. Feeding your pet cheap food is like giving him cereal. A high quality food typically has a meat as the first ingredient. High quality pet foods can not only be found at pet stores, but also at major discount retailers.
• Proper Identification
  Be sure to get an id tag on your new pet, including cats. Most shelters have extreme difficulty returning stray pets to their owners and these owners failed to simply put a tag on their pets. You can purchase pet tags at most pet stores and on the Internet. Most PetSmarts have an in store machine which can make an instant metal tag for only $6.

Ten Commandments of Responsible Pet Owners

1. My life is most likelyto last only 10-15 years.  Any separation from you is very painful.

2. Please give me time to understand what you want from me.

3. Please trust me....it is crucial for my well being.

4. Please don't be angry with me for a long time, and don't lock me alone up as punishment.  You have your work, your friends and your entertainment. I ONLY HAVE YOU!

5. Talk to me...even I don't understand your words.  I understand your voice and love when you speak to me.

6. Be aware, that however you treat me, I will NEVER forget it.

7. Before you hit me remember that I have teeth that could easily hurt you but I choose NOT to bite you because I love you.

8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative or bad, ask yourself if maybe there is another reason for my behavior.  Perhaps I am sick, hot, old, or just plain tired and weak.  Please try to understand me.

9. Take care of me when I get old, for you will grow old also.  Please take me to the vet when I am sick.  I may need medicine or medical help to get better.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch" or "do it when I leave".  Everything is easier for ME if you are there.  Remember I love you....... 

• Your New Pet is Ready to Learn!
  Taking your pet to training classes is beneficial to both you and your pet. Your pet will be more obedient and walk better on a leash. In addition, training can be a great family activity. A pet is like a child and needs to learn to be a wonderful pet. Training classes can be found at some pet stores. For behavior problems, find solutions on the Internet, call PAWS, or your local shelter.
• Heartworm Can Kill
  Pets can get heartworm from mosquitoes. If caught early, heartworm is treatable, but is a very expensive and delicate process. If not caught early enough, heartworm is fatal. Therefore, it is so important to get your pet on a heartworm preventative. Some of the major brands of preventatives are Sentinel, Interceptor, and HeartGuard. You can research the different brands on the Internet. Also, consult with your veterinarian.
• Develop a Relationship with a Veterinarian
  You should take your pet to a vet at least once a year. Be sure to keep your pet current on its shots. Consult your vet to establish a routine of shots.