Adopt with SAAR
Embrace a New Companion!
Considering welcoming a pet into your life from SAAR is a wonderful decision! We’re dedicated to uniting pets with their future families for a lifetime of joy. Do take a moment to peruse our Adoption FAQs, and prepare to be charmed by the cats and dogs eagerly awaiting their forever homes!
Things to Know Before You Adopt
Before you make the decision to adopt, there are some important things to consider! This guide will help you prepare for your new family member’s needs, ensuring a happy and comfortable homecoming!
1
Essential Considerations Before Adoption
Prior to deciding on adoption, it’s crucial to reflect on several vital considerations. Our guide is here to aid you in preparing for the necessities of your impending family addition, to facilitate a contented and cozy welcome to their new home.
2
Pet Ownership: A Lasting Responsibility
Reflect on the expected longevity of your potential pet – dogs may share 8-15 years with you, while cats can be companions for even longer. Such a long-term dedication demands thoughtful consideration, as they will become an integral part of your family for many years to come.
3
The Importance of a Nutritious Diet
Opting for premium pet nourishment can appear costly initially, yet it often leads to savings on veterinary expenses linked to substandard diets. A nutritious, balanced diet not only boosts your pet’s overall health but can also reduce how often they need to use the litter box.
4
Set Aside Resources for Veterinary Costs
Being financially equipped for veterinary bills is crucial. Routine health assessments or unforeseen emergencies can accumulate substantial costs. To alleviate potential economic stress, it’s worth contemplating pet insurance. Forward planning can help circumvent any sudden impacts on your budget.
5
Training is Essential for Pets
Training is a fundamental aspect of pet care, applicable to animals of all ages. It involves guiding them in appropriate behaviour and actions. Seeking advice from professionals or trainers can be immensely beneficial in understanding the most effective training techniques. Not only does training encourage your pet to heed your commands, but it also provides an enjoyable opportunity for you to bond and develop a strong friendship.
6
Exercise and Socialization are Key for Pets
Ensuring your pet receives ample exercise is vital for preventing behavioural issues. Just as humans require physical activity and play to remain healthy and content, so do dogs and cats.
Regular walks or playtime in dog parks are crucial for your dog’s well-being. Such activities not only maintain their physical fitness but also stimulate their mental health. For instance, a daily walk can reduce tendencies like excessive barking or inappropriate chewing. With sufficient exercise, your dog is more likely to be calm and satisfied.
7
Match Your Pet to Your Home Life and Habits
Selecting a pet that complements your lifestyle is crucial. Reflect on your daily schedule and family dynamics. For example, if your job requires you to be out for extended periods, a pet that is more independent may be suitable. Conversely, if you’re anticipating the arrival of a new baby, opt for a pet known for its gentle nature around young children. This consideration ensures a harmonious and joyful coexistence between your pet and your family.
An approximate annual cost breakdown for owning a dog in Canada:
The cost of owning a dog in Canada can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the dog, the breed, and any unforeseen health issues. However, I can provide you with a general breakdown of the average annual costs based on typical expenses associated with dog ownership.
- Food: Depending on the size and diet of the dog, high-quality dog food can cost between CAD 250 to CAD 1,000 per year.
Routine Veterinary Care: Annual check-ups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm prevention can range from CAD 200 to CAD 600. - Pet Insurance: While optional, pet insurance can be a wise investment to cover unexpected medical expenses. Premiums can vary from CAD 300 to CAD 1,000 per year.
- Grooming: For breeds requiring regular grooming, costs can range from CAD 30 to CAD 90 per session, with multiple sessions needed per year, potentially totalling CAD 300 to CAD 700 annually.
- Training: Basic training classes can cost around CAD 120 to CAD 200 for a series of sessions, though this can be a one-time cost or an ongoing expense if advanced training is desired.
- Accessories and Supplies: Beds, leashes, collars, toys, and other supplies can cost approximately CAD 100 to CAD 500 initially, with ongoing replacement costs each year.
- Boarding or Pet Sitting: If you travel and need to board your dog, or hire a pet sitter, costs can range from CAD 25 to CAD 50 per day.
- Miscellaneous: This includes treats, waste bags, and other miscellaneous items, which can add up to CAD 100 to CAD 300 per year.
Adding all these costs, the average annual expense of owning a dog in Canada could range from around CAD $1,470 to CAD $4,800 or more, not including any special medical treatments or emergency veterinary services that may arise.
Please note that these figures are rough estimates and actual costs can vary. It’s also important to consider that the first year of owning a pet can be more expensive due to one-time purchases and initial medical procedures like spaying or neutering.
An approximate annual cost breakdown for owning a cat in Canada:
The annual cost of owning a cat in Canada can vary depending on a number of factors, including the cat’s health, age, and any specific needs it may have. Here’s a general idea of the average costs you might expect:
- Food: High-quality cat food can range from CAD 150 to CAD 500 per year, depending on the brand and type of food.
- Litter: Cat litter costs can vary widely, but on average, you might spend CAD 120 to CAD 250 annually.
- Routine Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative medications for fleas and worms can cost between CAD 100 and CAD 300 per year.
- Pet Insurance: Optional pet insurance premiums can range from CAD 150 to CAD 500 per year, depending on the coverage.
- Grooming: While cats typically groom themselves, long-haired breeds may require professional grooming. This can cost anywhere from CAD 50 to CAD 300 per year.
- Accessories and Supplies: Initial costs for items such as a bed, scratching post, carrier, and toys can range from CAD 100 to CAD 500, with additional costs for replacements or additions each year.
- Unexpected Veterinary Costs: For illnesses or emergencies, costs can be significantly higher, which is why some owners opt for pet insurance.
Adding up these expenses, the average annual cost of owning a cat in Canada might be in the range of CAD 620 to CAD 1,850 or more, not including any significant medical treatments or emergencies.
It’s important to remember that these are approximate costs and the actual amount can vary based on individual circumstances. Initial costs during the first year of ownership can also be higher due to one-time purchases and initial medical procedures like spaying or neutering. It’s advisable to research and budget accordingly for the specific needs of the cat you plan to adopt.
FAQs
How do I start the adoption process at SAAR?
Begin by browsing our available pets online or visiting our rescue. Once you’ve found a potential new family member, fill out an adoption application form. Our team will then get in touch to discuss the next steps.
What are the requirements for adopting a pet?
You must be over 18, have identification showing your current address, and if renting, you may need permission from your landlord. We also require that all members of the household meet the pet to ensure a good match.
How long does the adoption process take?
The process can vary depending on the pet’s needs and your circumstances. We aim to complete adoptions as efficiently as possible while ensuring a good fit for both the pet and the family.
Can I adopt a pet if I have children or other animals?
Yes, many of our pets are well-suited to living with children and other animals. We’ll discuss your specific situation to find the best match for your household.
How much does it cost to adopt a pet?
Adoption fees vary depending on the type of animal and their needs. These fees help cover the costs of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and other medical care.
Fees:
Cats/Kittens
- Kitten – Under 6 months $150.00
- Cat – Over 6 months $110.00
- Senior Cat (7yrs+) $50.00
*Discounts offered for adopting pairs.
NOTE: All cat adoption fees include vaccinations (up to the adoption date), deworming, spay/neuter, and tattoo.
Puppies/Dogs
- Puppy – Under 1 year $350.00
- Dog – Over 1 year $300.00
- Small breed Dog $400.00
- Senior dog (7yrs+) $250.00
NOTE: All dog adoption fees include vaccinations (up to the adoption date), deworming, spay/neuter, and tattoo.
What is included in the adoption fee?
The fee includes a health check, spaying/neutering, tattoo, vaccinations to the point of adoption, deworming, FIV/FeLV test if age appropriate, and ear-mite treatment if necessary. Dogs also receive a Snap test on intake. This detects if they are heartworm, Lyme or Anaplasmosis positive. However, if the dog is too young, they won’t receive this test as Lyme takes 1 month to appear, and heartworm takes six months.
What if I need to return the pet after adoption?
We understand that circumstances can change. If you need to return a pet, we ask that you contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss the situation and make arrangements.
Do you offer support after adoption?
Yes, we offer post-adoption support and are happy to provide advice and assistance as you and your new pet adjust to life together.
Can I adopt a pet as a gift for someone else?
Pets are a long-term commitment, so we recommend that the primary caregiver be involved in the adoption process to ensure the pet is a good fit for their lifestyle.
What should I bring when I come to adopt a pet?
Please bring a form of identification, proof of address, and any relevant documents such as landlord permission if applicable. For taking your new pet home, a suitable carrier for cats or a leash for dogs is also needed.