Are You Ready for a Pet?
The decision to adopt a pet, especially a cat or dog, is a major one. Adorable as they are, it's better to approach the issue with your head more than your heart. Are you ready for the responsibility? Are you in it for the long haul? Consider what your future lifestyle will be, since many dogs can live for 16 or more years and cats, 20 or more years.
Are you thinking of welcoming a cat or dog into your life? Here are 5 key questions to ask yourself first.
1. Can I afford a dog or cat?
Citing statistics from the Humane Society of the United States (hsus.org) "In 2008, the average cost of owning a dog, including vet visits, food, pet insurance, pet license fees and gifts was $1,850. For owning a cat, the average cost was $1,400."
Vacation pet-sitting, doggy daycare, professional grooming, and veterinary emergencies not covered by your insurance will add to that total.
2. How much time can I spend with my pet?
A dog shouldn't be left alone for over eight to ten hours – at the most. If your dog would be alone for longer, hire a dog walker or consider doggy daycare.Dogs who are left alone and who suffer separation anxiety often engage in behaviour that's destructive to you (nipping or biting), your property (gnawed furniture, soiled floors) or themselves (self-biting, broken teeth, torn out toenails).
Adult cats are lower maintenance, provided their need for space, food, fresh water and a clean litter box are met – and provided you've got an aloof cat. (Often, former feral cats are a good match in this situation.) An affectionate "lap cat," however, may languish if left alone. Urinating outside the box or on your personal belongings is often a sign of an unhappy cat.
3. Is my motto "Chihuaua or nothing"?
Almost any non-violent person can become a good pet owner, provided they're open-minded about breeds. If you're an apartment-bound senior and you want an energetic Jack Russell, that wouldn't be a good match. You can't pick a dog based on "I saw it on TV and it's so cute!"
Do you like to unwind after work in front of the TV? Guess what: some dogs do too! Do you like to go for a jog? Ditto. Don't try to go for a run with a dog that would rather be napping.
Breed traits, as well as individual animal personalities, need to be taken into account. Are you willing to do this? If you're fixated only a specific breed's looks or trendiness, you're setting the match up for failure.
4. Can I deal with training my pet?
Training is important and can prevent your pet from being injured. Adult or senior dogs and cats are great if you don't have time to train your pet, since many are well trained.
But are you ready for dog obedience classes or trouble-shooting to uncover why your cat is mysteriously peeing on your bed?
Left unchecked, problems can escalate. If your dog barks excessively, will this affect your neighbours and force you to give up your dog?
5. Do I know where I'll be in two years time, let alone 20 years?
Having a furry roomie may be tempting while you're away at college or university, or moving into your first apartment. However, adopting a "permanent" cat or dog when your life is anything but isn't the right solution.
Fortunately, there are ways you can get your fur fix, without adopting – then abandoning – a pet.
Foster care is a great option if you want a positive, but temporary arrangement lasting from a couple weeks up to a few months. Contact us if you are interested in fostering.
