Are You Ready To Become A Pet Owner?
If you're looking to add a furry, scaly, or feathery animal to your household, make sure you go through these 20 questions first to make sure you're truly prepared. Because sometimes, people underestimate the amount of work it takes to be a good pet owner! That's why we've created this checklist so you can figure out if you have what it takes.
1. Do you have the space?
Regardless of what pet you're looking to purchase, it's important to know whether you have the space requirements to keep them happy. Whether that's enough room for dogs to play, big enough aquariums for fish, or cages for your guinea pigs, it's crucial that you first ensure your home is the right size for the animal.
2. Do you have easy outdoor access?
For certain pets like dogs and cats that require time outdoors, you should reflect on whether you a). have enough outdoor space and b). if they can have easy outdoor access. Some pets simply don't want to be cooped up inside all day long, and it's your responsible to provide this need for them.
3. Can you afford medical care?
It's no surprise that visits to the veterinarian can really add up, even more than you might realize. Taking care of your pet's health is no small task, and it'll likely come with big bills you have to be prepared to pay. If that sounds like too much for you to handle, it might not be a good time for you to adopt a pet. Their health comes first!
4. Can you afford daily food and supplies?
Don't forget that your pets need to eat every day just like you - and that means spending money on food and supplies. Different pets will require different amounts of food, meaning how much you spend will likely depend on what pet you're planning to adopt. Just make sure you do your research and make sure you can afford these necessities before you take them in.
5. Do you have someone to look after them when you're away?
If you're someone who loves taking vacations or has to step away for work very often, it's something you need to put into consideration. When you're away, do you have someone who can look after your pet? While some animals might need minimal care, others will need a lot, meaning you can't just walk away when they're looking to you to take care of them.
6. Can you commit to daily walks?
Pets like dogs require daily walks so that they stay healthy, strong, and happy. If you're not someone who can commit to that, you might want to think about whether a dog is truly the pet for you. After all, it's your responsibility to ensure you can meet the demands having this pet brings.
7. Are you prepared to keep them groomed?
Whether it's cutting their nails, trimming their fur, or giving them regular baths, pets need to be properly taken care of and groomed on a regular basis. While some people think it's just for looks, it's really for their health! Would you want to go an entire year without cutting your nails? If you shiver at the thought of it, why would you subject your pet to that!
8. Can you be patient with training?
For those of you planning on adopting a pet still in its infancy, you have to be prepared to take on the challenge of getting them trained. Certain pets, like turtles, reptiles, and fish won't need that extra attention, but others like dogs, cats, birds, and even guinea pigs might need some special attention. This isn't something that can be rushed and will take your time, and possibly money, to get to where you want to be.
9. Will you be around?
Before you even consider the possibility of adopting a pet, answer this question first: will you be around to look after it? If you're barely home because of work schedules or simply love being out all day, you're not going to be around to look after and love your pet. And no animal deserves to be alone and uncared for.
10. Do you have other pets to worry about?
Yes, you do have to be concerned about whether your pets will get along. What are you going to do if they fight all day or are at each other's throats? Whether it's the same animal or a different species, make sure that all your pets are compatible and have a good chance at getting along before adding a new one to the mix.
11. Do you have children?
If you have children, are they at an age where they can be responsible and help with taking care of the pet? Or are they too young and the animal might pose as a potential danger? It's important to think about your own family first and whether or not having an extra addition will be helpful or harmful.
12. Is anyone in the household allergic?
Before you look to add an animal to your household, it's probably a good idea to check if anyone is allergic. After all, you never know! You might have a secret allergy to hamster fur that you didn't realize! Doing this simple check can save you a world of trouble.
13. Does everyone at home want a pet?
Let's be honest - owning a pet requires a team effort. If you're looking for a new member of the family, make sure that before you do so, everyone involved wants a pet. You're going to need all hands on deck caring for this animal, and it deserves love from everyone at home.
14. Does the dog match your lifestyle?
Yes, pets have personalities! That's why it's so important that you do a temperament check before you adopt one into your home. If you have a talkative bird, an energetic puppy, or a moody cat, does that match what you're looking for? Just as people need to "pass the vibe check" before becoming friends, the same can be said for pets.
15. Are you sure this isn't a short-term want?
Once you adopt a pet, they become your responsibility for the rest of their life. So before you go ahead and make your move, really think deeply about whether or not this is a long-term commitment you want. Make sure that your desire to own a pet won't be short-lived and that you're ready to take on this new family member for the years to come.
16. How familiar are you with this animal?
While some common pets like dogs and cats feel very familiar for most individuals, more exotic options like snakes, lizards, and turtles might feel like new territory. Which is why, before you buy one, think about how familiar you are with this animal and owning it as a pet. It's best that you feel well-educated about the ins-and-outs of its specific pet care needs before you make a purchase.
17. How will you make your animal feel at home?
From decking your aquarium out with fun little pieces or buying a cat tree for your feline to play around with, you should have your home prepared with objects and items that will help make your new pet feel at ease. Don't forget that being in a new environment is scary for animals too - do the best you can to set up your house so it's pet-friendly and comfortable for them.
18. Does your residence accept animals?
Sadly, if you live in an apartment, some buildings have strict rules against pets. Whether it's prohibiting you from owning any or placing a limit to how many you have, you should do your research and find out your apartment rules ahead of time.
19. Do you want a young or old pet?
Specifically for cats and dogs, what age are you looking to own? Whatever age you choose, young or old, comes with different sets of expectations and rules to follow. For example, older dogs might require more veterinary visits and special care while young puppies need more attention and training. Pick whatever fits your needs best, but just make sure you're aware of the challenges that come with it.
Linoleum Creative Collective on Unsplash
20. What are you going to name it?
Ending on a light-hearted note, before you get your pet, you should of course come up with some great names! Pick something that resonates with you, whether you love cute nicknames, human names, or something entirely made up. Just make sure you like it - it's better to stick with one at the beginning so you don't confuse your pet!
