Choosing to adopt a shelter pet is a decision that will change your life, but before you pick the first floppy-eared, warm-eyed mutt that pulls at your heartstrings, consider the serious commitment you are about to make and act with your head as well as your heart.

The Sad Truth

According to the Humane Society of the United States, every day nearly 16,500 to 22,000 homeless dogs and cats enter animal shelters across this country. Each year approximately 3 to 4 million animals are euthanized at shelters because there just aren't enough good homes. So before you head down to the shelter to adopt a dog or cat, ask yourself these basic questions:

• Am I ready to make a long-term commitment (dogs live 10 to 15 years and cats 15 to 20 years)?
• Is everyone in my household in favor of adopting a pet?
• Can I afford the pet?
• Can I have pets where I live?
• Am I ready to take on the daily responsibilities of owning the pet?
• Am I willing to understand basic pet behavior and commit to training the pet?

Now that you have answered these questions and are ready to stock up on kibble and Kongs, it's time to consider the finer points of adoption.

Ask Yourself Why

Don't adopt because your kids have been begging for a puppy or because you think a gray kitten will match your décor. Understand your motivations for adopting a pet. Sit down with your family and discuss the pros and cons and what kind of animal is right for all of you. Remember, adopting a pet is a lifelong commitment. Be prepared for the changes a new pet will bring. Chew-crazy puppies and sofa-scratching kittens, racing, climbing and piddling all over are par for the course when you adopt young animals. Puppies need training and attention, which requires a big time commitment. Expect the unexpected in the form of flea infestations, sudden medical emergencies, behavior problems and so forth.

Be a responsible pet owner. Before you adopt, educate yourself and your children on what it means to take care of an animal. Walking a dog several times a day, cleaning a litter box, feeding and bathing, not to mention spending quality time with your new adoptee, are all part of the daily life of a pet owner. Many pets end up in shelters because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to properly care for them.

Find the Right Fit

Some breeds are naturally more bossy or high-strung than others. Breeds like Labradors or Golden Retrievers are known to be more even-tempered and good with children. Touch and noise-sensitive dogs are not suitable for young children, nor are most toy-sized dogs. Mixed breeds can be the best of both worlds. Spend time getting acquainted with the dog you are considering at the shelter before you adopt.

Don't get a pet just because your child wants one. If you do, it is unrealistic to expect the child to do all the work. Kids under six years old, for instance, may not be mature enough to be responsible. No matter how mature your child is, you will need to provide constant supervision and act as a safety net when your child can't hold up his or her end.

Allergic Reactions

Many pet-owners discover they have allergies after they've adopted a pet. Often these pets end up back at the shelter. If you are unsure about your children's allergic reactions, have them spend time in the home of pet-owning friends before bringing a dog or a cat into your home.

Your Lifestyle

A cat may be a better choice if you have a very busy life since they are more independent than dogs, although they still need attention and love on a daily basis. Dogs require more attention than cats. Some are more suited to apartment living and some do best in a more spacious environment with a yard. Whatever type of pet you decide to adopt, don't just jump in. Spend time with an adoption counselor at your local shelter who can help you find a match made in heaven.