It’s an amazing decision for a prospective pet owner to bring a dog or cat into their world, something to celebrate. Owning a pet is a low-risk, high-reward venture, and it’s a wonderful feeling to give an abandoned animal a loving home. It’s the kind of thing that makes the world a better place.
With that said, there are a few essentials for anyone looking to get a pet. Consider the following:
1. If there are rules against having a cat or dog in a residence: some owners do not allow dogs. Some don’t even allow cats. That’s understandable both ways, as few dogs can be cooped up in an apartment or small for hours on end, and cats occasionally wreak havoc with their claws on walls and blinds. That says nothing of the excretory mess that pets can make. It is better to check the guidelines in advance rather than risk a fine, eviction, or having to surrender a new pet to avoid those destinations.
2. If it’s possible to make a lifelong commitment to an animal: Few things are as sad as an animal shelter after the holidays, when gifted pets are often abandoned. To be clear: adopting a dog or cat should not be an impulsive decision. It shouldn’t be a joke. It is a lifelong decision involving a living being. Anyone who can’t handle this probably can’t handle having a pet. They certainly shouldn’t.
3. If you can afford a pet: Pets generally cost more up front. Even adopting from a shelter or pet business can cost around $500 between adoption fees, vaccinations, and a deposit on the apartment. Animals are pretty cheap from there, especially indoor ones with food and toys, maybe $20 a month or so. That being said, there are incidentals like checkups and vet visits, costs that can add up as animals age.
4. Whether the collateral damage is worth it: In a sense, animals are a bit like children. Keep them close and some things will probably break. Cats often use furniture as scratching posts. The dogs knock over the lamps. Turtles bite mantas (I think). For an avowed bachelor, adopting a pet may mean he’ll lose $15 if things go south, but for the fancier crowd, contingency measures may need to be taken.
5. What items will need to be purchased: If someone were starting from scratch to adopt a pet, they may need to purchase the following: a food dish, a separate water bowl, a bed, a litter box, and a poop scooper, a leash, a carrier, toys, a laser pointer, a scratching post, a cat tree. Perhaps they need the services of a dog trainer at some point. The list goes on. It’s amazing how many animals can benefit.
That being said, none of this is rocket science. Best wishes to anyone looking to adopt a pet!