For animal lovers, getting a pet for themselves is among the best moments of their lives. The decision may be taken as spontaneously as adopting a stranded animal that you came across while walking home one final day, or reached after thorough research and introspection. Whatever the situation may be, here are some questions that you should ask yourself and mull over before becoming the parent to a furry-child:
Have I researched enough?
One of the most important things is to research well before zeroing in on a pet in order to avoid suffering consequences which will be unfair both to your pet and you. For instance, you need to ensure that someone’s always around, especially in case you adopt a puppy or a kitten, since they are highly energetic and require loads of attention and care in their developing phase, and cannot be left alone for long periods. In case you live with your family, you will have to choose a pet and breed accordingly. You may also need to consider the size of your home when making your final choice. After all, if you live in a small apartment, it would be unfair to bring home a large breed like an Alsatian or a Golden Retriever who need a lot of space to run around and be themselves. Thorough research, therefore, is mandatory in order to not come back home to havoc!
Am I ready to be a responsible pet parent?
This is the most important question you need to ask yourself before even considering getting a pet. While you may spend an adequate amount of time and take them for check-ups duly, certain things may often seem trivial but they are almost as necessary for your pet’s well-being. From walking your pet twice a day and trimming their nails to washing their water and food bowls, getting up in the middle of a night just to pat them to sleep, constantly keeping a check of every nook and corner of your house—you will have to do it all. Getting a pet is a commitment for a lifetime and not just an activity of leisure, and you have to discern everything before becoming a pet parent.
Can I afford one?
Animals require constant care, and even the seemingly healthiest ones might need to visit the vet on a regular basis. Emergencies may happen, and no one can predict anything. Money matters and if you think you will find it hard to meet the expenses of all the good quality food, constant vaccinations, medicines, neutering and surgeries in case of an accident, then you should probably consider getting yourself a pet when you are in a more economically stable phase in your life.
Do I have enough time?
Pets, like human children, require a fair share of your attention and time, especially when they are new to you. If you stay alone and work for long hours or frequently go out, then getting a pet at this point of time will not be the most practical thing to do. You need to understand that pets are not to be toyed with as per your convenience. If the motive behind getting a pet is to have a companion, know that they need a companion just as much as you do, and maybe more, since their world revolves around you.
Will pet be able to adjust to my lifestyle?
Choosing a breed because it is ‘cute’ or ‘popular’ has to be one of the worst decisions one can take. More often than not, people who choose basis such factors end up with the animal being deserted because they have a hard time adjusting which is the worst thing that anybody can do. You need to carefully gauge if the pet fits your lifestyle, and your lifestyle fits the pet. Some pets require constant attention while some are relatively independent so you should choose your pet accordingly.
Is my house and the environment safe?
Since your pet will spend a majority of their lifetime within the boundaries of your house, you need to ensure that your house and your surroundings are comfortable enough. Items that can be dangerous (for instance loose wires, small inedible things that a pet may accidentally consume, etc.) should be kept strictly out of reach, and litter boxes should be thoroughly cleaned every now and then. Even outside, ensure that the play area is free of hazards and is vast enough for their needs.
Will I be able to train it well?
One of the biggest misconceptions is thinking that the animals will learn to behave on their own when they ‘grow up’. Getting calmer and learning a new thing or two is barely enough; they need proper training and guidance. You need to inculcate the same in them as a habit. Training may be tedious initially, but it helps in ensuring that your furry companion knows what is right and what is not, and takes an action consequently.
Is there a good veterinarian around?
There may be times when nothing would seem wrong with your pet, and yet they might be struggling with a lot of health issues within. You should keep yourself well-acquainted with common symptoms and frequent a veterinarian and take your pet for wellness checks often. Keep the numbers of the pet clinics around you handy, in case you need to make a sudden appointment, or even otherwise.
While all of this may seem a little overwhelming, it becomes absolutely worth it when you get an equal and undivided amount of love and attention from your four-legged child. While they may take a little time to adjust, they will be all that you would ever need around you in no time. And since you are all that they have, the pets leave no stone unturned in making you their entire world, making all the struggles you initially faced worthy.
The article has been authored by Bhupendra Khanal, Founder and CEO at Dogsee Chew.
