List of Items Needed for Adopting a Dog

Before running out and adopting a dog from your local animal rescue center, there are a number of items you will need to purchase to ensure your pet has everything it needs prior to coming to its new home. As a responsible pet owner, making sure that you already have the most important dog care essentials on hand will make it easier to make your pet feel more comfortable and allow you to care for it in a manner that it deserves.

  1. Feeding Supplies

    • Having the necessary feeding supplies on hand before your pet comes home prevents the risk of your dog missing a meal while you try and run to the store to get what you need. Clean, sanitized food and water dishes in the appropriate size for your pet should be purchased before you adopt your new dog. If you plan to use feeding bowls you already have from a previous pet, make sure to properly clean and sterilize them to prevent possibly spreading bacteria and disease.

      Before adopting your dog, ask the person currently caring for the dog what type of dog food is being fed to your new pet. You should purchase a small bag of this exact dog food brand, even if you plan to change your dog's diet. Making a gradual transition from its current food to a new food will help to prevent stomach irritation.

    Leash and Collar

    • You will need a leash and collar of appropriate size for your dog in order to bring your pet home from the rescue center or foster home. Using a leash and collar on your dog whenever you are not in your home ensures that it does not run away and become injured or lost. An identification tag with contact information and license or proof of rabies vaccination tag should also be affixed to the collar as soon as possible after bringing your dog home.

    Toys

    • A selection of toys for your dog to play with can not only help to make it feel more comfortable in its new environment, but can help relieve boredom when you are away as well. Select toys that are safe for chewing and of the appropriate size for your pet. Having a wide selection of toys for your adopted dog to choose from helps add variety and keep your pet entertained longer.

    Carrier or Training Crate

    • It is a good idea to have a carrier or training crate to provide your dog with a safe and protected area. Leaving a new dog by itself can be stressful, causing it to possibly revert to destructive behavior in your home. Having a training crate on hand before the dog comes home gives you an immediate place to house it while you are away. Moreover, your dog will have a place that if feels safe as the crate will become similar to its den or hideaway when it is stressed or anxious.