If you’re considering getting your first family pet, then this is a very serious decision and one that should not be taken lightly. After all, you’re bringing in an animal to live in your home and making them a part of your family. This means that you should take the time to carefully think about whether it is a good idea to get a pet. Many first-time pet owners don’t think about everything they need to, especially when thinking about adopting a cat or dog. Taking care of a pet is quite challenging and this often shocks new owners which causes them to surrender their pet to a shelter.
Cost
It is costly to take care of a pet and you’ll likely have to spend many hundreds of dollars on them every year. The ASPCA indicates that for the first year of pet ownership, you can expect to pay as much as $2,000. The fees to adopt a pet can cost $500+. Also, you need to consider the cost of pet necessities such as toys, food, vaccines, grooming, bedding, insurance, frequent vet check-ups and more.
Time
In addition to spending money on a new pet, you’ll also need to spend your time taking care of them. For example, if you get a new pet dog, you’ll need to ensure that they are let out a minimum of two times per day so that they can relieve themselves. Also, if you get a puppy or a breed that is known for its high energy, then you need to spend time taking your dog to the dog park and taking them for walks, other you’ll have to get in touch with a dog walking franchise and pay them to walk your pooch. This means that you’ll be spending about an hour or two per day on these activities. If you have limited time, then you shouldn’t get a time-intensive pet such as a dog. You should consider less time-consuming pets such as fish, cats, lizards etc.
Space
Bigger animals will naturally require more space. For example, if you have a large dog such as a Great Dane or Mastiff and you live in a small studio apartment, they will have a lot of difficulties living in this small space. You should only get a large breed dog if you have enough space for them. Keep in mind that this space is not only necessary for your pet but also for yourself and your family. Additionally, your pet’s belongings will also take up space such as their beds, toys, water bowl etc.
Restrictions
There are many neighbourhoods where there are legal restrictions on the type of pet you can have. For example, if you live in an apartment building, then they may have a list of dog breeds that you can’t have. For example, they may not allow Pit bulls, Akitas etc. Additionally, you have to consider the health restrictions of your family since this will impact the type of pet that you can get. So, if you have a child who has asthma or a fur allergy, then you have to keep this in mind when choosing a pet.
Cleanliness
Even pets that are domesticated aren’t as hygienic and clean as you may wish. They will still behave like animals and will track dirt into your home and dirty your floors and rugs. They will also bring in pests into your home such as fleas and they may even have accidents on your bed or other belongings. Most dogs and cats’ fur will also naturally stick onto your clothes, furniture and other items in your home. So, make sure that you get a good pet vacuum as well as quality cleaning supplies to regularly clean your home. If you opt for a smaller pet such as a hamster or rabbit, then you’ll need to clean their bedding and housing a minimum of once every 2 weeks.
Temperament
Every pet would have a different personality. You may experience some dogs that are very clingy whereas others may be independent and aloof. So, be sure that you figure out the type of pet that is most suitable for your family so that everyone is safe and happy. You should only get a pet that has behavioural issues if you already have experience in this field and training. With that said, some behaviours develop later and can’t be avoided and you should get professional help if needed.