If you love animals and are considering bringing a new pet into your family, there are some things you need to be aware of and prepare for to give your new furry friend the best life possible. Owning a pet can be costly, stressful, and time-consuming, but it can also be rewarding. You and your family can get a lot of satisfaction from a new pet if you’re truly ready for it.
Know When You’re Ready
A pet needs a lot of time and resources to live a healthy and happy life. Your schedule and priorities need to allow you time to care for them or the resources to hire someone if you can’t always be hands-on. Ensure you also have the money to pay for their needs, including pet insurance, medicine, food, toys, and extra cash saved for unexpected vet bills or damage they might cause.
Make Sure You’re Emotionally Ready
Bringing a new pet home can be an incredible but also stressful event. Make sure you’re ready to deal with the additional stress it might impose on you and your family. If the pet is young and not yet trained, it can be stressful to clean up after them consistently and be patient when they don’t obey commands. If you’re stressed out, your pet may sense it, which can impact their well-being. Working from home, even one or two days a week, can have a positive impact on you and your pet. Hiring someone to spend time with your pet can be a stress relief for them and you. Self-care is integral, as it will affect your ability to tolerate any stresses caused by your pet.
Prepare Your Home
Depending on the type of pet you plan to bring home, it’s important that you place them somewhere they can’t cause a lot of damage to your home. With a dog, you’ll want to pursue house and crate training, so they don’t damage furniture or knock over fragile items. Pet-proofing your house will be beneficial. Know where you plan to put their food and water and keep dangerous chemicals out of their reach. Evaluating what areas are accessible to pets and planning around these spots is important.
Prepare Your Family
If you have children, they may be excited about a new pet. However, you should set rules to protect both them and your pet. If you’re in a relationship, communicate with your significant other and ensure you’re on the same page about getting a new pet. Disagreements about owning a pet can lead to resentment later on, and your pet will be stressed if they can tell one of you isn’t fond of them.
Being a Pet Parent
Bonding with a pet can be an emotionally fulfilling experience that offers many life lessons. Be sure you’re ready to embark on this journey with the time and financial means needed.
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