Things to consider
WHY?
Knowing why you have decided to add a pet to the home is always extremely important. If your children have been nagging you and you’re doing it just to appease them, it might be best to forego getting a new pet. However, if you are looking for a long-term commitment that you can cherish for many years to come, you might just be ready! If your not sure on why, give yourself time to figure it out. Remember that getting a pet is a huge, life-long, commitment so knowing why you want one is always a good starting point.
TIME?
One important thing to remember is that pets take time. Considering the time you have to devote to them is important when getting a pet. Choosing a pet that needs a lot of exercise won’t fit if you are someone that enjoys spending your free time watching movies and relaxing at home. If you do enjoy being at home, it might be best to get a small, caged animal or a cat. If you are adventurous and enjoy hiking, it would be better to get a dog that is more energetic. Cats aren’t good hiking partners and smaller dog breeds probably won’t be able to keep up.
LIFESYTLE?
It is extremely important to know if a pet is the right fit for your lifestyle. If you are never home because you travel for work, it would probably be best that you not have a pet. If you live in an apartment or rental, check with your landlord before making a decision. Most rentals have pet restrictions and many do not allow pets. Also, what happens when your lease is up? If you rent now, but are planning on moving to a different rental in the future, will your pet be able to go with you? Research different types of pets and their needs. It is important that you have a pet that fits well with the activity level of your lifestyle. You will always want the pet you choose to fit into the lifestyle you have. Never choose a pet by your reaction to their picture or a sad story behind them.
SPACE?
Many people fail to consider the amount of space that is needed for a pet. Dogs will need a place to run, the amount of room for running will depend on the size of the dog. Cats need less space, but if the home is extremely small you may want to consider climbing options for a cat. This will keep them from getting bored and destroying the home. If you are looking for a turtle, you will need space to put a large aquarium. Birds also need plenty of space to spread their wings and can’t be expected to live in a small cage 24/7.
COST?
Can you afford to own a pet, is there a better choice for you due to the cost of owning? Knowing your budget is always important! Before you bring home a new pet, be sure to consider what expenses you will have. Although food can be costly, especially if you are wanting to have your pet on the best possible diet, there are many other fees associated with pet ownership. These fees include yearly vaccinations, possible training, boarding and/or health issues. If you are someone that struggles to provide for yourself and/or your family, is bringing a pet in the home the best choice?
LIFELONG COMMITMENT?
When you decide to bring a pet into your home, you are making a lifelong commitment to that animal. Sometimes that commitment can be as short as 1-2 years like with a dwarf hamster, but there are pets out there, such as the red-eared slider (turtle) that can live an estimated 25+ years. Knowing the expected life span of a pet is extremely important when picking the best fit for your home. Also keep in mind that this lifelong commitment is for the life of the pet, and there are often circumstances in life that are beyond our control. When taking a pet into your home you should always have a plan in place, just in case something was to happen to you.