Things to Consider When Adopting a Cat or Dog

Whether you happened upon a cute picture on Facebook, or your young child has been begging you for a pet to call his or her own, getting a pet of any kind is a huge decision. It isn’t a new toy; it’s a whole other living being to take care of. Before you pick out your fur baby, consider some of the elements below.

Cost

Cost is an enormous factor, because you don’t really know what it will be. You have licensing, bedding, collars, leashes, and ongoing vet care. Even if your pet doesn’t have any health issues, you have to think of preventative maintenance, and possibly even medical grooming, depending on the pet you get. You might want to consider pet insurance as an option, so you can manage costs more easily.

Time

Do the people in your home have time for a new pet?

• Pets need playtime with their owners.
• Pets need to be let outside, though you might reduce the time spent on this issue by opting to install a pet door.
• Are you going to have time to train the pet so that you don’t get frustrated with the behavior of an untrained pet?

It isn’t that you should feel discouraged about getting a pet, but you might want to plan for things like a pet door in order to make the process more pleasant for everyone. Pets who are going to be treated well are pets that are considered to be family members. Is a new fur baby really right for your family?