While owning new pets is rewarding, be mindful that pet ownership is also a huge responsibility. Here are several important things you should consider before getting a pet.
1. Can you commit?
Pet ownership is a long-term commitment. Dogs and cats have an average life span of 10-15 years. Would you be able to commit to them for such a long time? Dogs and cats require a lot of attention. If you feel that you can’t devote your time to your pet, getting a choice is not a wise choice for you. Or perhaps you can choose to get a pet like a fish as they are less time demanding.
2. Can you afford it?
Know your financial condition. Owning pets can cost you a lot. Food, grooming, toys, veterinary care, and treatment are the expenses you can’t avoid if you own a dog or cat. Owning a fish is less costly compared to other pets.
3. Will pets fit your lifestyle?
If you have long working hours, busy social life and you travel a lot, think twice before you are getting a dog and a cat. Like we mentioned, dogs and cats require attention. They need you to play and interact with them constantly. Solitude can lead to a serious behavioral problem. Make sure your pet can accommodate your lifestyle.
4. Do research
Do research beforehand on the pet you wish to get. Pet care, for instance, requires a great deal of knowledge. Grooming, nutrition tips, and safety are pieces of stuff you need to know before you get a pet dog or cat. Just google it. You may find tons of information on the internet. If you think information from the internet is not reliable, you can always refer to the vet in your community.
5. Allergies
Make sure you or your family don’t have allergies to fur and animals. If you are not sure whether you or your children are allergic to cats and dogs, spend time at your friend’s house with a pet to find out.
6. Training
If you are thinking of getting a pet such as a cat or a dog, pet training (obedience training, behavioral training, etc) is something that you can’t miss out on. One of the basic training is potty training. There is no single, guaranteed method for success in potty training. You have to invest time and effort in it. Dogs for example need to be taught so that they will be well behaved, or they will destroy your house and leave a big mess for you to clean up. Hamsters, rabbits, or birds are types of pets that don’t require much training.
7. Get a veterinarian
Almost all pet owners have a veterinarian they can rely on for their pet’s medical concerns. The veterinarian is the first person you should approach when your pet is sick or injured. Veterinarians are also an important source of information about your pet. Find yourself a trustful veterinarian before getting a pet.
No matter what pet you are going to bring home, make sure to treat them well and have a pet insurance policy handy. Though owning a pet cost you time and money, we can assure you that it is worth it.
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