There’s a growing concern about the rise in pets’ abandonments. This is because more people adopt pets without proper consideration of what it takes to care for them.
To some people, one of the greatest moments in life include the day they met their pets for the first time, adopted them and go home with them. If you scroll hours and hours through the internet admiring pictures of dogs, here are things to consider before bringing a new pet home.
Why do you want a pet?
This deep question might not cross your mind as you stare into the big, shiny eyes of an adorable puppy or a lazy cat. But you really should take some time to do soul searching before taking one home. Are you alone at home? Do you crave some responsibilities? Do you have the passion to save an abandoned animal? This journey is a big commitment, so figuring out why you want to do it is the best position to begin.
Are you willing to commit long-term?
Will you have the time to take your dog for a walk three times a day? Will you remember to exercise your cat every now and then? If the answer is no, and you have no one who can perform those essential tasks, you should pause right at the idea only. You can consider a fish or a parakeet as a low-demand animal companion.
Which breed will fit your lifestyle?
Did you know that certain pets will never be right for you? Most shelters and rescue groups are excellent at match-making when it comes to finding adopters the best pet that fits their lifestyle. Your kind of apartment, your schedule, activity level and hobbies and what you’re looking for in a pet should be put into consideration before picking one.
Are you ready to train your pet?
If you don’t want your home to still be recognisable, the housetraining will need to start immediately after bringing your pet home. If you are adopting a kitten, introduce him to his litterbox as soon as you get him inside. If it is a puppy, leash him up and take him outside to start getting to know his neighbourhood. Most puppies will be intimidated by their new surroundings, and you don’t want to put a fright into your puppy. Repetition of commands will eventually make it so that you will be able to take your dog out in any kind of weather without worrying about how long your dog will take to relieve himself.
Are you ready for an adjustment period?
If it’s a puppy you’ll be adopting into your home, be prepared for crying. Yes, just as with human babies, baby dogs cry during the night in their first days in their new home. But unlike human babies, it is not a good idea to take your puppy to your bed to soothe him. The best thing you can do before bringing the puppy home is set up a quiet, enclosed space with a comfortable bed, or a kennel that can be closed, keeping your puppy secure from wandering. Choose the spot that will be your dog’s permanent spot.
Bedtime for cats is easier. Arrange the kitten’s sleeping area in a secure area close to his litter box so that he doesn’t get lost looking for it, and then leave him to romp around in his area until he drops off to sleep.
Things get a little bit trickier when you are bringing a new pet into a home with pets. You will need to make sure that your resident pet does not feel threatened enough to strike out at the newcomer.
Also note that you need to be ready for grooming, purchase of treats and food, lesser spare time for you and a whole lot more.
So, with the above considerations, do you still want to adopt a pet?
Please drop your comments and questions in the comment section.