Getting a pet for the first time is a huge excitement for us. Pets can be very powerful in our lives. They give us great joy and can bring us many benefits for both our health and mental wellbeing too. However, owning a pet does come with a few challenges. But what you get back from having one definitely outweighs these demands. Before rushing into buying a pet though, it’s important to consider a few things first…
1. Do your research
Before getting a pet, particularly a dog, you need to make sure you do your research. For example, what type of dog would suit you and your life best?
Age – Having a puppy is a huge amount of fun and very cute but they have a lot of energy and will need plenty of attention too! If you do not have this time and energy to spend training them and cleaning up their ‘accidents’ then great! If not, then you may want to consider rehoming a slightly older dog which may require slightly less maintenance at first. Additionally rehoming a pet can be incredibly rewarding too. You’re giving them the second chance of the loving home they deserve and the bond you make with them can be truly special.
Breed – Not all breeds are the same. Like us, they come in all different shapes and sizes. They also come with different characteristics too. Dogs were originally bred for different roles, and these affect their personalities. So depending on the sort of lifestyle you lead you need to make sure you choose the right breed for you. For example if you want a family friendly dog you may choose something like Golden Retriever as they have a gentle temperament and are very loyal too.
Where you buy the pet from – Bringing a furry-friend home to your family is a very exciting day but it’s also important to ensure you are getting it from a trusted breeder. When handling the sale, a trusted breeder should be as curious about you as you are about them. In the same way, if you are buying your pet online, make sure you consider its coming from a safe and reliable place too.
2. Can you commit?
One thing you need to remember is that having a pet is a long term commitment. Dogs and cats’ lives can last from 10-15 years. They will also need exercise 2 times a day at least. If you have a busy work schedule and have long working days. You may need to consider a dog walker. If you go away a lot, you also will need someone to look after them too. If you are happy to commit all of this to them then pawfect 😉
3. Allergies?
Ensure that you or your family aren’t allergic towards fur or animals before you buy one. If you’re unsure, it might be worth spending a long period of time with a friend’s pet to test the water first…
4. Have you got the money
Don’t forget that owning a pet comes with costs. When managing your finances towards it, remember to include: food, grooming, toys, veterinary care and treatment, pet sitting and dog walking all within your expenses.
5. Is the house pet-proof?
Before your new furry arrival comes to its new home, make sure the house is “pet-proof” to make sure both your pet and the furniture are safe! Ensure any toxic foods are not in reach, and that anything else that could be a danger to them (such as cords, medications, chemicals etc) are stistiredred away. It’s also sensible to cover your furniture in case of any accidents as well as protecting them for their tendency to chew too! If your puppy is in training then disposable puppy matts are brilliant to lay around the house.
6. Be patient, loving and kind 💚
When it finally comes to bringing your furry friend back home for the first time. Remember, he or she has just been introduced to a brand new world! This means it has so many new things to learn and experience. However well you train your pup, you won’t escape a few little bathroom disasters along the way and you might also lose a pair of your favorite trainers that you forget to hide out of sight!
It can be very frustrating at first, but it’s important to be patient with the learning process your new animal will go through. With the right love, care and attention your new friend will grow into the perfect companion for you and we can assure all the resilience will be worth it in the end!
