10 Questions to Help You Prepare for a Family Pet
April 7, 2008
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This post is by guest blogger Christina Lemmey of Surviving at Home.
Pets can be a great source of joy for a family if careful planning and research is completed prior to your pet’s arrival.
1. What kind of pet do you want?
The most popular family pets are dogs and cats but some families choose rabbits, birds, or even livestock if they have enough land. The family should be in agreement about what type of pet they want so there are no hurt feelings or resentment towards the animal. If every family member agrees, every person should be willing to help feed and care for the animal.
2. Do you know how to care for this pet?
Saving a cat from the shelter may seem like a noble act but there’s more to caring for a cat than just taking it home and buying a bag of cat food. Some things to research are: how many times a day does the animal eat; what kind of food does it eat; what kind of grooming is necessary; is it housetrained; and when should we visit the vet? As you continue your research, more questions will arise.
3. What costs are involved?
Even adopting a pet from an animal shelter will cost some money because the shelter has expenses. These costs, however, are usually far less than the cost of buying a full bred animal from a breeder. Consider the cost of the pet, any vitamins or supplements the animal may need, any pet supplies you need to purchase, grooming appointments, and the cost of the food. If you choose a cat or dog, investigate the charges for having the animal spayed or neutered. Also, how many times a year do you anticipate seeing the veterinarian? All these costs can add up and put you into debt if not planned for in advance.
4. Where will you purchase your pet?
If you choose a dog or cat, there are animal shelters and rescue groups in nearly every state from which you can adopt a pet. You may also choose to contact a breeder if you want a full bred pet. Be very wary of buying a dog or cat from pet stores! Many of these puppies and kittens are bred in inhumane conditions and sold to pet stores for profit.
5. What is your level of commitment to training the pet?
Depending on where you purchase your pet, he/she may need more training or more time to adjust to your family’s life. Rescue animals are often victims of abuse so they may show signs of either aggression or timidness, which may require extra training sessions. All family members should be old enough to understand how to handle a previously abused animal and be prepared for its unpredictable actions.
6. Where will you keep the animal?
Dogs and cats all start off little and cute but they DO grow up! Do you have enough room for your family and a full sized dog in your house? Where will you fit a large aquarium or hamster cage? Do you have a spare corner for a rabbit pen?
7. Do you have children?
Maybe this question should be the first one you ask yourselves because depending on the answer and how old they are will help determine what kind of animal you should get. Think carefully about adding a puppy or kitten when children are very young because they can be just like a newborn with the amount of attention it will need. Puppies WILL wake during the night for a potty run outside and kittens will most likely spill some of their litter while they are learning how to use a litter box. Think carefully about if you have the energy to care for your children as well as a furry child.
8. What type of pet will best suit your family dynamic?
Think carefully about what your family’s schedule is like and what kind of pet would best adapt to it. Large dogs that need a lot of exercise may not fare well in an apartment setting. Likewise, animals that like lots of attention may not adjust well if left in an empty house while both adults work. Also consider the breed’s reputation if choosing a dog or cat. Some are very well known for being friendly and loveable while others would rather be more aloof.
9. Will the children be able to help care for the pet?
Dividing the pet responsibilities with children will teach them responsibility and alleviate the added stress for parents. Making a chore chart will help keep things equal and will also help little ones remember when they have to do their job.
10. Is our home animal proofed?
If you have a fenced yard, check for any holes or spaces where other animals may have started digging. Inside, simply crawl on your hands and knees around your home and look for anything an anxious puppy or kitten could reach and chew. Wires are a common hazard as are little toy pieces that can easily be swallowed. Teaching children how to pick up after themselves will improve the chances of keeping your pet safe and keeping their belongings intact.
Having a family pet is a lot of fun but also a lot of responsibility. Many shelters are overcrowded so it’s best for both your family and your pet to think of these things prior to bringing your pet home.
About the Guest Blogger: Christina Lemmey (Our Mom’s Talk News Editor) is a stay at home mom in New York, USA. She shares her stay at home survival stories and tips at Surviving at Home.
Keep up with what’s happening at Mom’s Talk Network, by clicking here.
Posted by Christina | Filed Under Parenting
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