1. Determine if you can adequately care for a pet. While pets are loving additions to your home, they are not always easy to manage. All pets require time, money, and love in addition to the specific needs of each animal and breed. You need to be sure you want a pet not just that day but in the long-term.
- Most pets require attention and maintenance during the day, so make sure you'll be home enough to take care of your pet.
- If you have kids, consider what pets will be kid friendly. Hamsters and fish, for example, make great early pets.
- If you plan on moving or making large lifestyle changes you shouldn't consider a pet until you are more stable.
2. Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle. Even different types of dogs have different needs, so make sure you pick a pet that suits your means. Before buying a pet do thorough research on the behaviors and needs of various pets you like. Don't go into this decision dead-set on one species or breed -- being open-minded can lead to happy surprises and the right pet for your family. Keep in mind some general concerns with different pets:
- Dogs - though dogs vary widely by breed, all dogs need lots of attention, time to exercise, and plenty of room to roam.
- Cats - Intelligent and individual, cats will be fine with less supervision, though they still need your love and time to keep from acting out..
- Hamsters, Gerbils, Ferrets, and Rodents - Economical and short-living, rodents make good first pets. They often, however, have strong odors.
- Fish - Fish need careful monitoring and care to thrive, and won't cuddle anytime soon. Think of having a fish like having a garden.
- Lizards - Happy on their own and generally easy to care for, lizards do not offer much affection and can be difficult to diagnose when sick.
- Birds - Birds can be incredibly messy and are often loud. They are also expensive and occasionally temperamental, especially bigger birds like parrots.
3. Prepare your house for your incoming pet. Curious, food-driven, and unable to listen to your warnings, pets can get into trouble if you don't create boundaries or safe spaces. Birds may dart out of open windows, lizards can scamper around the house, and dogs or cats may run into the street. Take note of openings your pet could accidentally escape through and make sure you can keep food out of their reach.
- Remove any harmful objects like knives or poisonous food.
- If you want your animal to have outside time, consider putting in a fence.
- Put aside one room that you can designate as the pet's "bedroom."
- Aim to adopt your pet during a relatively quiet time in your life so that everyone can avoid undue stress while getting used to each other.
4. Buy necessary pet supplies in advance. Talk to the pet store attendants or adoption agencies about things you'll need -- housing, toys, grooming supplies, etc. -- and shop before you bring your new pet home. Teach your family members how to use everything so that everyone is on the same page.
- If you have young children you can help them prepare for pet care by "feeding" a doll or regularly watering plants.
Comments
Post a Comment