Adopting a pet

Shelters and rescue groups in most Indian cities have healthy, friendly animals waiting for homes: puppies and adult dogs, kittens and cats, and sometimes rabbits and birds that were given up.

Why adopt

• You give a home to an animal that has none.
• Shelter workers know the animal and can tell you if it is calm, playful, good with children or better as an only pet.
• Indian native dogs and cats are hardy and suited to the climate.
• An adult animal's size and nature are already known.

Questions to ask

• How old is the animal, and what is known about its past?
• How does it behave with children, strangers and other animals?
• What has it been eating?
• Has a vet examined it? Ask for any vaccination and treatment records.
• Is it used to a leash, a litter tray or handling?
• Can I bring it back or get help if things go wrong?

If you buy instead

• Visit the place where the animal was born. See the mother and the living conditions.
• Walk away from sellers who will not show you where the animals are kept, who have many kinds and litters at once, or who offer very young animals.
• Puppies and kittens should stay with their mother for about the first eight weeks.
• Do not buy from roadside sellers or from anyone offering wild birds or animals.
• Choose a breed for your climate and home, not for looks. Heavy-coated and flat-faced breeds suffer in Indian heat.

Take your time

Meet the animal more than once. Take the whole family. Sleep on the decision. A pet chosen in a hurry is the pet most often given up.

This is a care guide, not veterinary advice. It covers housing, food, routine and safety. It does not diagnose or treat illness. If your pet seems unwell, is hurt or behaves differently, take it to a qualified veterinarian without delay.