Things to Consider Before Adopting a Pet
The information below is something that I had shared on my original account (that I can no longer access). It's always good to have a copy of our writing & now I know the same for our passwords. At least for a site like Steemit where you can't do an easy reset.
I thought I'd try my hand at article writing. This is just one of two I created. Maybe that's all I'll ever do. The following is something I've had experience with. The other that I wrote is about fashion. I don't know as much about that. Sometimes a writer is called upon to do subjects they may not be as well versed in. This is where research comes in. I do a lot of that just for my own knowledge & pleasure.
Article writing doesn't come naturally to me. Not the same as creative & observational/conversational. I'm so busy collaborating on a few different series, that, I really don't have time for other writing any way. Other than on here & occasionally, another site. Articles would be fine if I could get a residual income. Usually, once you sell it, either on a site that has the option to post them or more often those you customize for someone, that's it. It's one time only. Because, they're supposed to be exclusive. That's why I prefer writing books. Besides having a talent toward them, I can be earning from them for years to come.
This article, for me, is less of an article than just some good information to share. Many of you are already aware of, most, if not, all of it. Having been pet parents for years. Or, even if you're new to it, a lot of it is just common sense. Even so, it can still be helpful for novices & veterans alike.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ADOPTING A PET
Today, around the world, selecting a pet has become so commonplace that almost every household has at least one. People have animal companions for various reasons. For many, they’re considered a part of the family. There are some who are starting to consider having, at least one, maybe because of a recommendation from those who have adopted one themselves. A cat or a dog from a shelter or rescue. They, occasionally, have other animals available as well, such as, rabbits. It is important to contemplate the factors around adopting a pet before doing so. One shouldn’t decide to adopt a pet because their friend or family member has one. Adopting requires commitment. The pet deserves to be treated with care, nurturing, love, patience, understanding. Most animals at the shelter are there because they were either an owner surrender or picked up as a stray and not reclaimed. It’s a traumatic experience, either way and they are seeking a new family who will care for them the rest of their days. This article will show you some of the key factors to ponder before adopting a pet.
WHY DO YOU WANT IT?
The very first thing to consider, before adopting is, the reason behind your adoption. If you take on a pet not because you truly love animals and want to save one, but, instead because you’re influenced by others, see them as a possession, status symbol or just something to have around (almost like part of the furnishings), for example, then, it’s not being done for a good reason. If this is the case, then, you might not be as committed to taking diligent care of and/or making much time for your animal companion. This can create neglect and an unhealthy situation for your pet.
YOUR SCHEDULE
Before adopting a pet, it is essential that you put thought into your schedule. You should consider if you have enough time to be able to spend with your pet. Of course, you will need to be able to provide for them, so, will be working some of that time. If you don’t have much or any extra time, then, it’s advisable you don’t go for high maintenance or very energetic animals. They need more time, attention and activity. Even a cat or dog who is more of a snuggler, rather than, being playful or lively, would still need a certain amount of responsibility. If you don’t believe you’d be able to offer an animal that, then, in all fairness to them and yourself, it might be best to hold off until that time comes, if it does, that you’re able to give that to them.
FINANCE
This is one to reflect upon. Having a strong financial support is vital before adopting a pet. Much funding might be required to buy vaccinations, food, bedding, medications, vet visits, plus, toys and treats, if you want to give them something extra special. These are important for a happy and healthy pet. It’s necessary that you carefully examine your financial circumstance to meet the standard required in taking care of your new family member.
YOUR ENVIRONMENT
Taking your surroundings into consideration is also quite imperative. Some environments are not pet friendly. One reason dogs and cat’s windup at the shelter. There aren’t enough pet friendly rentals. If you’re not allowed to have any pets where you live, then, stop right here. This is something else that wouldn’t be fair to you or your pet. You might wind up having to get them rehomed or you could be evicted. If your landlord learns you’re keeping an animal without permission. If you do live some place where you can have a pet, especially if you own the home, then, you should make sure it is safe. Nothing toxic that they could ingest. Not living on a busy street (if they’re indoor/outdoor). Making sure any current pets you have will get along with the new one. Cats are dog friendly and vice versa. Of course, even if they are, some personalities don’t always mesh well. That they’re not frightened by young children, if you have them and your children are taught how to treat an animal. These are just some things to think upon before bringing a new pet into your life.
STAGE OF LIFE
Your stage of life also goes a long way in determining if you should go for a pet or not. If you or your partner is going to have or has just had a baby, your new child needs the time, attention and care and this wouldn’t be the best time to bring an animal companion into your home. If you’re staying for a brief period of time in an area (perhaps due to a work project), even if pets are accepted where you live, it would be best to hold off obtaining one. They would just be getting used to that one home and then you’d have to uproot them. If you’re going through a divorce, health issue or other life changing event, you may wish to wait until things become more settled. Even though animals are a good source of support and comfort.
Their age also matters. Kittens, young adults, middle aged adults, seniors all require a different focus. From time, attention, food, accommodations, vet visits and more. Talk to someone at the shelter or rescue and see if they can impart any information about your chosen cat or dog, so you have an idea what to expect. If they were given up by their previous owner, there should be details in the records. Along with the staff and volunteer’s experiences.
CONCLUSION
Acquiring a new pet really can be challenging but also worth it, once you’ve considered the different aspects necessary for bringing them into your life and making a better one for them. There is no point in getting a pet if you wouldn’t be able to improve their situation. One of the best reasons for bringing in an animal companion. Above are the vital elements to consider before adopting a pet and you can be assured that you won’t have regrets if you take all of that to heart and listen to what the shelter staff also shares with you. Happy adopting.
