Adopting a dog? Here's what you need to know

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Welcoming a dog into your home can be quite an adventure, but it's important to make sure that you're prepared for a pet! The Houston SPCA recommends taking these seven steps when adopting a dog:

1. Pet-proof your home, and prepare members of your family before the dog arrives.
2. Make sure that your pet gets adequate exercise, and watch for signs of heat stress and exhaustion during warm summer months.
3. Ensure your new pet receives proper house training and socialization.
4. Schedule monthly prevention and yearly exams to keep Fido in good health.
5. Ensure your animal is easily identifiable via microchip or tag, and keep registration information current.
6. Dogs can live for more than a decade, so ensure that everyone in the household is ready for the multi-year commitment of owning a dog.
7. Talk with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding amount and type of food for your new four-legged friend.

If you're ready to adopt a pet, don't miss ABC13's Pick Your Pet drive on March 23. Between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m., all adoptions made at the ABC13 studios will be free courtesy of Platinum Pools. The drive then continues until 6 p.m. at the Houston SPCA. Click here for more information.

YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND IS WAITING!

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