Having a pet in your life has been proven to make you happier and healthier, but deciding to add a furry (or not so furry) pet to your family is a big decision. It’s almost as big of a choice as adding a child to your family. It’s not something you should rush into and ask questions later. Below are a few tips to help you make the best decision so that you, and your pet, can live the best life possible.
Be Prepared for the Responsibility
Have you considered all the financial costs? It’s easy to budget for food, licensing fees, and annual vaccinations. But you also have to consider grooming, dental cleanings, emergency visits, and if you will put your pet in lodging when you're leaving town for work or vacation. Those bills can add up fast if your finances are already stretched pretty thin.
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Have you considered the amount of time it takes to care for a pet? Working 16 hours a day won’t allow for much pet/parent interaction time unless, of course, you’re lucky enough to be able to take your pet to work with you every day. Even being gone from the house for 9 to 10 hours a day is a long time for a pet to be alone, especially if they are an extra active pet.
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Is your lifestyle conducive to including a pet? Are the places you frequent considered pet-friendly? If not, are you and your family ready to alter normal activities to something that can include your pet (especially if you opt to get a frisky canine)?
Cats Need Just as Much Attention and Energy as a Dog
There is a long going misunderstanding that cats are far easier to take care of than dogs, which isn’t true. Cats need the same amount of affection, attention, and stimulation as almost any other dog. Don’t let a feline’s aloof demeanor fool you. Just because you can’t take them on a walk doesn’t mean they don’t want to get outside to prowl around or play on a jungle gym.
Choosing to Adopt a Special Needs or Senior Pet
Choosing to adopt a senior or special needs pet is genuinely a fantastic act of selflessness. They require more care and attention and can often mean special diets and medical treatment, but what you get in return is a pet that is truly thankful and will return that love 10-fold.
Really Pay Attention to Your Pet Behaviors
All pets are not great communicators when it comes to explaining what ails them, that’s why it is so important to pay attention to their normal behaviors such as eating habits, sleep cycle, and even the gait of their walk.
Engage with Your Veterinarian
Don’t be scared to share everything you have noticed about your pet, even if you think it probably isn’t important. Small changes in a pet’s daily behavior can be a significant indicator of underlying issues. Also, don’t shy away from asking for all of your pet’s treatment options and why they recommend what they recommend. Any good veterinarian is going to be happy to explain the why’s of a needed treatment protocol.
Pets are family members, and as such you want the best life your pet could possible have. We know there is so much more that goes into giving your pet the very best life possible, so if you have questions, please feel free to contact us anytime!
