Things To Consider Before Becoming A Pet Owner

From dogs to cats to birds to hamsters, pets can bring a sense of warmth and companionship to our lives. Pets are loyal, unconditionally loving, and will be at our sides when no one else is.

Pet ownership can be an enriching and rewarding experience, but it is also a major commitment that requires thoughtful consideration. If you're thinking about welcoming a pet into your life, consider the following.

The cost
Purchasing or adopting a pet can be a serious financial undertaking. Dogs and cats may require costly procedures like spaying, neutering, or declawing. Food, grooming, yearly shots, medication, and insurance can quickly add up. Choose a pet that fits your financial means. Rabbits, hamsters, birds, and fish are less expensive to care for, while cats and dogs can be pricier.

The time
Caring for a pet requires a commitment of your time. Besides feeding and grooming, some pets will require exercise and playing. Make sure your schedule will fit with the requirements of your pet; leaving an attention-hungry pet alone for hours at a time is unfair. Dogs need the most interaction, while cats, rabbits, birds, and fish require less.

The environment
Apartments, condos, and rental spaces may have rules that prohibit all pets, or certain kinds of animals, specific breeds of animals, or animals of a certain size. Some towns and cities also have by-laws banning or regulating specific animals and breeds. Also consider the size of your living space - is it conducive to holding a large tank or cage, or to having a dog or cat roam about in?

The future
Pet ownership is long-term commitment. Before getting a pet, look at the days, weeks, and years ahead. Will you have someone to look after your pet when you are away? Will you take the pet with you if your living arrangement changes? Will you be able to handle the time and the financial commitments down the road? You should only adopt or purchase a pet if you can honestly answer yes to these questions.

Photo source.

Jaclyn Tersigni
		About the author:
		Jaclyn is a 20-something journalism student at Ryerson University. She traded suburbia for the big city two years ago and enjoys navigating life as a single woman in Toronto. She’s a burgeoning foodie, a borderline music snob, a news junkie, and constant explorer of the world.
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