A commitment to adopting a pet should be a lifetime one. However, too many people decide to adopt a pet for the wrong reasons, make spontaneous and not well-thought-out decisions, and adopt pets that aren't a good fit for their home, family, or lifestyle. In this episode, Starlight Pet Talk host Amy Castro speaks with "That Dog Guy," professional dog trainer Ricky Bedient, about how people should choose a shelter dog. In this episode, Amy and Ricky discuss the following: Preparing yourself and your home for a new dogDetermining what characteristics of a dog best fit your lifestyleWhy getting a puppy is NOT always the best choiceHow a professional trainer can help you choose the right dog for youBenefits of getting a dog from a shelterCharacteristics to consider including age, potential size, breed, and moreWhy it's important the whole family meets the dog before adoptionWhy "what you see is what you get," is NOT true of choosing a dog at a shelterHow a professional trainer can help you address common issues with shelter or rescue dogsAnd more!Shoutouts in this episode:West Texas Pet Detectives Facebook GroupPetfinder.comAdoptapet.comCONTACT STARLIGHT PET TALK!Email us at: Amy@StarlightPetTalk.comFollow us on Facebook!Thanks for listening, and hug your pets for us!