Things To Think About Before Getting A Pet

We are a nation of animal-lovers and with millions of us owning pets it is no wonder that many of us are tempted to get our first furry friend, or perhaps an addition to the menagerie. Whilst there is no doubt that pets can bring love and happiness to our homes, it is not always possible to have them. We know that before buying or adopting any animal we must ensure that we are doing what is best for them, which is why today we are sharing 3 things to think about before getting a pet. 

Image Pixabay – Pixabay License

Do you have enough time to give them?

This should be the first consideration when you are thinking of getting a pet. 

All pets will take up your time to some degree. This might be in cleaning them out and feeding them regularly or playing with them. It might be that they need daily exercise and animals like dogs enjoy having company around them, so will you be available for them? 

Whilst time spent with pets is very rewarding, you do need to be honest with yourself about how much time you can devote to them before committing to a new pet. 

Have you got the money to care for them?

Pets do not come for free, so you will need to think about the costs that you are likely to incur, both upfront and ongoing, to care for your new pet. 

Pedigree dogs can easily run to a thousand pounds and more and horses and ponies are likelt to be a similar amount. Of course at the other end of the scale you can buy pets such as fish or small rodents for around ten to twenty pounds. Buying the animal itself is only a very small part of pet ownership, though, as they are then likely to need items such as cages, aquariums, mobile field shelters, crates and beds. Add onto that equipment such as food and water bowls, bedding, toys and leads and it is starting to add up.

Pets will then need pet insurance, food and health care provided on an ongoing basis, so be sure to factor these in when you are running the numbers. 

Do you know enough about them? 

You need to ensure that you fully understand the needs of your pet. Carry out some research into the animal itself, what they will want from you and the best ways to look after them.

For example, if you are thinking of getting a dog, have you researched the health risks of the breed you are interested in? Do you know how much exercise they will need when they are fully grown? Do you know how to keep them cool in the hot weather? Do you know how to train them to walk properly on a lead? The list could go on and on, and whilst there will be plenty that you can and will learn once you have your pet, it makes sense to educate yourself prior to getting your pet so that you can best care for them and understand all that pet ownership will entail. 

Is there specialist care available?

If you’re planning on getting more of an unusual pet such as a bird or a snake, your regular vet may not be able to provide the care and treatment it may need if it becomes sick. Unusual Pet Vets provide veterinary services for reptiles, birds and small mammals, and have experienced veterinarians to take care of your unusual but wonderful pet. They offer services such as: 

• Sterilization
• General health care packages
• Anesthesia
• Annual health checks

Using specialist veterinary services will help ensure your pet gets the care they need.

If you have answered ‘yes’ to all of the above, then we wish you a happy life with your new pet!

Sarah x