| When you go to an animal shelter you will want | | | | behavior and assess weather or not he shows a |
| to pick a dog that is in good health. There are | | | | desire to please. This time alone with the dog is |
| certain signs to look for which can give you a | | | | crucial to your decision, is this the right dog for |
| general idea of the health of the animal. A healthy | | | | me? Ask the shelter staff for the dogs health |
| dog should have clear bright eyes. If the eyes are | | | | assessment. They will be able to give you their |
| matted, this is an indication of an eye disorder or | | | | evaluation as to the general health of the animal. |
| infection. The dog should have a shinny and full | | | | Remember that shelter staff work and interact |
| coat. A dull coat is a sign of malnutrition and if the | | | | daily with the dogs and that their recommendation |
| fur is falling out, this could indicate a skin disorder. | | | | in general will be accurate. |
| Examine the dog completely checking the coat | | | | Ask if the shelter has a return policy. This policy |
| for any concerns. Look at the dog and determine | | | | and their medical certificate is important in case |
| if it appears to be the proper weight. Too thin | | | | your vet finds a serious medical issue. This visit |
| could indicate worms, disease or malnutrition. | | | | should be scheduled with your vet right after the |
| Check the dogs nose for discharge, this could | | | | adoption. If a serious medical issue is found, you |
| indicate a respiratory problem. A dry warm nose | | | | may need to return the dog to the shelter if you |
| can indicate a fever. | | | | are unable to afford serious medical expenses. |
| Pick a dog that is active, friendly, inquisitive and | | | | Your vet will be able to run test to be certain of |
| appears to want to please you. Make these | | | | the dogs health since some health issues are not |
| observations on a private walk with the dog. Ask | | | | apparent by visual inspection. |
| the shelter staff if you can take the dog on a | | | | With a clean bill of health, you and your dog will be |
| walk, allow the animal time to settle down and get | | | | ready to start a lifetime companionship. |
| away from the other animals in the shelter | | | | Remember to follow your vets advice and take |
| allowing the dog to get use to you and show its | | | | your dog for scheduled visits to ensure that he |
| true personality. On this walk, observe the dogs | | | | stays healthy. |