Owning a pet, whether it’s an energetic puppy, laid-back cat, or chilled out lizard, has a wealth of benefits. Not only is it beneficial to your mental health, but it can significantly improve your physical health, and often in unexpected ways! Did you know, for example, that owning a cat can lower your risk of health disease, along with reducing anxiety?
However, before you visit the pet store or shelter and bring home a new family member, there are essential aspects you need to consider. There’s no worse feeling than adopting a pet only to find you can’t cope and have to make the heartbreaking decision to rehome it. To avoid this, take notice of the points below.
Do You Have the Time?
Time is a crucial aspect to consider before deciding which pet you want to call your own. Life can be hectic, especially if you work full-time and have a family to look after and take responsibility for. As much as children need time and attention, so does a dog or cat. They too need the necessary time spent on making them feel at home, particularly when they are young, and daily walks and play time. If you cannot find time in your busy schedule, it may not be the best time to purchase a pet.
However, there are options around time issues should your canine family member need pet sitting or walking while you are at work. Tail Waggers, for example, provide expert care and loving attention whether you’re in the office or on vacation.
What Will Other Members of the Family Think?
You may love the idea of having a cat curled up on your lap in an evening, but would your partner feel the same? Perhaps they have always envisioned running through a forest with an excited dog at their side.If you are bringing a new pet into the family home, it’s vital to take everyone’s opinion into account. Your children may love the idea of a cuddly dog, but large cuddly dogs need a lot of exercise, so is each member of the family prepared to help out?
Additionally, you need to consider allergies, along with anyfears family members may have. Do your children shy away from dogs when they approach? This is a sure sign they may fear them. On the other hand, however, purchasing your own puppy may be the key to changing this fear at a young age.
What Type of Pet Will Suit Your Lifestyle?
If you do decide you have time to dedicate solely to your new family member, it’s time to consider what pet will suit you best. Your lifestyle is made up of a variety of factors, including your job, your home, how much exercise you enjoy, and more. For example, if you live in a small apartment on the fifth floor in a city center, a Saint Bernard dog might not be the best choice. Not only will they quickly outgrow the space, but they require extended daily walks. However, if you live in a property with an extensive outside area available, this particular breed may fit in perfectly.
Similarly, if you don’t enjoy exercise and you would rather sit at home watching your favorite TV shows, a dog which requires a lot of activity may quickly tire you out. In this instance, why not choose a kitten who will happily spend time playing before curling up to sleep next to you?
To Conclude
Owning a pet has incredible benefits for every member of the family, but it isn’t a decision to rush. While coming home to a happy, excited puppy every day might sound like a dream come true, the reality can be somewhat different when you take into account daily exercise, food expenses, insurance bills, adjustments to make to the family home and so on. Carefully consider every aspect above before you bring home a new member of the family,and you are sure to make a choice which will change yours and your family’s life for the better.