Having a pet is rewarding, but it can be hard work as well. If you are well prepared, do your research, and love your pet unconditionally, caring for a pet doesn’t have to be back-breaking. Read on to get some tips for supporting any animal addition to your family.
Prepare yourself and your family for a pet:
1. Determine if you can adequately care for a pet
While pets are loving additions to your home, they are not always easy to manage. All pets require time, money, effort and love in addition to the specific needs of each animal and breed. You need to be sure you want a pet not just that day but in the long-term.
Most pets require attention and maintenance during the day, so make sure you’ll be home enough to take care of your pet.
If you plan on moving or making large lifestyle changes you shouldn’t consider a pet until you are more stable.
2. Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle
Even different types of dogs have different needs, so make sure you pick a pet that suits your means. Before buying a pet do thorough research on the behaviors and needs of various pets you like. Don’t go into this decision dead-set on one species or bread — being open minded can lead to happy surprises and the right pet for your family. Keep in mind some general concerns with different pets.
Dogs: Though dogs vary widely by breed, all dogs need lots of attention, time to exercise and plenty of room to roam.
Cats: Intelligent and individual, cats will be beautiful with less supervision, though they still need your love and time to keep from acting out.
Birds: Birds can be incredibly messy and are often loud. They are also expensive and occasionally temperamental, especially bigger birds like parrots.
3. Prepare your house for your incoming pet
Curious, food driven, and unable to listen to your warnings, pets can get into trouble if you don’t create boundaries or safe spaces. Dogs or cats may run into the street. Take note of openings your pet could accidentally escape through and make sure you can keep food out of their reach, Remove any harmful objects like knives or poisonous food.
If you want your animal to have outside time, consider putting in a fence. Aim to adopt your pet during a relatively quiet time in your life so that everyone can avoid undue stress while getting used to each other.
4. Buy necessary pet supplies in advance
Talk to the pet store attendants or adoption agencies about things you’ll need — housing, toys, grooming supplies, etc. — and shop before you bring your new pet home. Teach your family members how to use everything so that everyone is on the same page.
Care for a pet:
- Budget enough money for adequate care.
- Schedule regular visits the pet.
- Make sure your new “family member” has food that suits their nutritional needs.
- Disciplining and training your dog is very important.
- Give your pet your affection and attention.
- Clean your pet and all of its enclosures.
- Do in-depth research on care for your pet.
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