Francine is full of energy and ready to play. Courtesy
Francine is full of energy and ready to play. Courtesy

So you’ve decided that you’re going to get a dog. How do you choose a dog who will be a good fit for you and your lifestyle? Consider the following:

Activity level of the household: Do you want an exercise partner or a couch potato?Free time: If you work long hours away from home, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a pet, but you might want to consider getting a cat who’s independent or an older dog who is comfortable being home and relaxing all day.Housing: Some dogs are nosier than others, and some need more space for exercise and play than others. If you live in an apartment, neighbors might complain about pet noises.Age of the pet: Many people want to get a puppy to start with a “clean slate,” but an older pet already has an established personality and behaviors, which mean it can be easier to find the right fit. An adult dog might already be house-trained and might not have a puppy’s destructive behaviors.Medical needs: you’ll need to keep up with basic vaccines and checkups at the vet. Does the pet have other medical concerns that must be addressed?

There are many wonderful dogs (including purebreds) at your local shelter and rescue groups. When you choose one of these dogs, you often get the added bonus of knowing that you have saved a life. To learn more, visit bestfriends.org.

With a motto of “Save Them All,” Best Friends Animal Society, headquartered in Kanab, Utah, works locally with both the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter and the Aztec Animal Shelter.

Pet of the Week: Francine

If you need a little puppy love, come meet Francine at the Aztec Animal Shelter. Wiggling, full of energy and ready to play, this approximately four-month-old pup came to the shelter as a stray. While strays don’t come with information, AI suggests this dog is a Black Mouth Cur, a medium to large size American breed of dog that originated in the south of the country and is a popular hunting companion. It is noted they can be a good pet for the right people. They are playful, affectionate, energetic and need daily physical activity. Francine gets along well with other dogs and seems eager to become someone’s active best buddy. Let’s get this loving cutie where she belongs – in an equally loving home.