A2 Key (KET) Practice Paper 35

alice: Hello, we're interested in adopting an older dog. Do you have any available? george: Yes, we currently have three older dogs looking for homes, all between five and eight years old. alice: That's wonderful. What is the adoption process like? george: First, you'll meet the dogs, then we visit your home to make sure it's suitable. alice: That sounds sensible. How long does the whole process usually take? george: It usually takes about two weeks from the first meeting to bringing the dog home. alice: Is there a fee involved? george: Yes, the adoption fee is fifty-five pounds, which includes vaccinations and a health check. alice: That seems fair. Do you provide any support after we take the dog home? george: Yes, we offer free advice by phone for the first month, in case you have any questions.

Naomi has always loved animals, so she was thrilled when her family decided to adopt a rescue dog from the local shelter. The dog, a medium-sized brown mix called Biscuit, had been at the shelter for nearly a year because many families prefer to adopt puppies rather than older dogs. When Biscuit first arrived at Naomi's house, he was nervous and hid under the kitchen table for most of the first day. Naomi's family gave him time and space, speaking softly and letting him approach them when he felt ready. Within two weeks, Biscuit began following Naomi around the house and even started sleeping in her bedroom every night. Naomi says adopting an older dog was one of the best decisions her family has ever made, and she encourages other families to consider rescue dogs too.

Adopting older dogs from shelters ___1___ becoming more common as people learn about the benefits. My neighbour, Mr Silva, ___2___ an elderly dog called Max last spring, even though he had always previously owned puppies. Max ___3___ quite anxious during his first few days in the new home, refusing to eat much food. Mr Silva ___4___ patient with him, offering treats gently and speaking in a calm voice. Slowly, Max ___5___ more relaxed and confident around his new family. Mr Silva says older dogs ___6___ many advantages, since they are usually already trained and calmer than puppies. He now ___7___ that his decision to adopt Max was completely right. Mr Silva ___8___ other families to consider adopting older animals from shelters too.