The Responsibility of Pet Ownership
Having a pet is one of life's most rewarding pleasures. The interaction, the affection, and the companionship combine for an experience unlike any other. But pet ownershipis also a large responsibility, one that is not for everyone or every time in a person's life. If you are considering getting a pet, please take the time to look over the information below before doing so.
Money
Pets, quite honestly, cost money. The financial investment is certainly worth it; there's no doubt about that. But before you buy a pet, you should take a look at how much it will cost and how extra income you have. Keep in mind all the pet supplies you'll need: food, bedding, toys, and other accessories. Vet visits are another important financial consideration. Trips to the vet are an essential part of good pet care, and in many places yearly vaccinations are required by law.
Time
Another important consideration is time. Pets need a lot of attention and love, and for this you will have to have plenty of time at home to spend with them. Thus someone who travels on a regular basis or for long periods of time should probably wait to get a pet. Also keep in mind the long-term care of the animal. For example, a cat can live 15 years and beyond with proper care. Of course no one can see the future, but you should plan to keep the animal for its natural lifespan. Statistics show that an unfortunately large number of cats have had to switch owners at least one time.
Lifestyle
Also think about what pet will be the best for your life situation, again considering the duration of the pet's life. Do you want a pet that will do well with children? One that is very energetic and loves to play? Or do you want a pet that is very laid back and will just sit in your lap for hours and hours? The answers to these questions should be the primary criteria for determining what pet you get.
For instance, rabbits are generally not recommended for households with very small children. As for cats and dogs, their temperaments can vary widely. How purebreds will turn out as adults is somewhat predictable, but how mixed breeds will turn out is often unpredictable. Thus while puppies and kittens are undeniably cute, if you are going to get a mixed breed animal you will probably be more satisfied in the long run if you adopt an adult. You will also be performing a good deed. Most people think they want kittens and puppies, which results in many adult animals being euthanized.
In Conclusion . . .
Please, never buy a pet on impulse or as a gift for someone. One sad example of the negative effects of these two practices is the high rabbit sales at Easter. Many pet stores push cute little bunnies at this time of year and convince people to buy them on impulse, often as gifts. But because proper planning didn't go into the purchase the vast majority of those rabbits sadly will be neglected or handed over to animal shelters.
So before you buy a pet, be sure to think through all the pertinent issues and plan properly. If you pick the right pet at the right time, you can have a rewarding and long-lasting relationship that will benefit both you and your animal friend.
