Thousands of pets were adopted amidst the recent Covid-19 pandemic. And that’s because our furry companions can reduce anxiety and boost serotonin, especially during times of stress and tragedy.
And if you’re reading this article, you probably want to become a pet parent too. However, adopting a pet is a serious responsibility and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Fortunately, there are many blogs like this one that offer excellent Pets Advice to first-time pet owners.
Keep reading to learn more about pet adoption!
1. Are You Financially Ready?
Being a pet parent to a cat or dog requires a lot of money. For starters, are you financially ready for monthly pet fees for your residents? And if your pet tears or damages your home are you ready to fix and pay for the damages?
There are also annual, vaccination fees and veterinarian check-ups. However, these expenses may seem not as regular but you also have to remember all of the other weekly expenses. For example, nail and fur grooming, pet food, treats, and toys!
As well as the initial pet supplies like bedding, cages, and possible dog training. Not to mention, some adoption centers have an adoption fee that you must pay beforehand!
All of these expenses can add up to a lot of money and if you’re not financially prepared, you shouldn’t go through with the adoption!
2. Do You Have the Time?
We understand that most people are working from home at the moment. However, there will come a time when you will return back to the office. And when this happens your pet may not adjust well to these changes. Especially if you work long hours!
So if you know your work-life schedule will be shifting soon, it’s best to wait until you have more flexibility or you can rearrange your schedule!
Nevertheless, you can still work and have pets. Just remember that they will need playtime, walks, potty breaks, cuddle breaks, and feeding times. So if you don’t possess enough to get all of this done, don’t adopt an animal!
3. Do You Have Allergies?
This may seem obvious but a lot of people don’t know they have allergies to pets until they adopt one. So if you’re thinking about adopting a cat or dog, get an allergy test beforehand.
Or if you have small children make sure they also don’t have any pet allergies as well! And if you do have pet allergies, you can adopt a hypoallergenic dog or cat!
4. Do You Live in the Right Area?
The great thing about adopting a cat is it can adjust to most areas. As long as they have the right toys and playing equipment. However, for dogs, especially the ones that weigh more than 40 pounds the same does not apply.
Most dogs need a grassy area to play in and do their business. And they need space in their homes to roam freely and relax in. So if you live in a smaller home that doesn’t have the necessary facilities for your dog to explore, your pet may fall victim to depression!
Nevertheless, you don’t need to have a huge backyard or house for your pet to be happy! As long as they have ample space to move around and play, they will live happily!
5. Do You Have Patience?
It’s no secret that dogs and cats work hard. Especially when they are puppies or elderly. There’s a lot of training, reinforcement, and forgiveness that goes into being a pet parent.
So if you don’t have the best patience, being a dog or cat owner may not be the best decision for you! Nevertheless, just like pets, humans can also be trained. In fact, adopting an animal will be a great test of your character.
So if you’re at least open to change then becoming a pet parent could help you to become more patient! Because when it really comes down to it, our pets teach us, not the other way around.
6. Are You Ready For a Long Commitment?
Dogs and cats can live anywhere from 15 to even 20 years! And right now, adopting a cat or a dog may seem great, but what about in 15 years? Are you fully ready to take care of an elderly dog when the time comes? Are you always going to have the same love and care as you did when you first adopted your pet?
If the answer is no, then save yourself the hassle of having to rehome a pet. But most importantly save an innocent dog or cat from the heartbreak of having to be rehomed because their owners want a puppy or don’t have the time to take care of them.
This may seem harsh but the reality is that many elderly dogs get rehomed once they become “too much”. And sadly this can cause severe depression and anxiety in dogs and cats.
7. Are You Ready to Love and Be Loved Unconditionally?
When you adopt, you get a pet that will love you for the rest of its life. Every day when you wake up, they will rely on you to keep them healthy and show them love.
So if you’re ready to love a pet unconditionally and have them reciprocate that, then you’re ready to be a pet parent! And thankfully, websites like ZuluTails can help you get connected to your furry best friend!
Adopting a Pet Is Easy
Adopting a pet is easy, it’s what comes after that can be challenging. But the reward of saving a life and having a best friend makes it all worth it. So if you’ve considered all of these factors, and you’re fully ready, then become a pet parent today!
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