Things to consider when adopting a pet

“Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions; they pass no criticisms,” according to novelist George Eliot. We think that shows in how happy pet owners are.

Many people with pets also see an increase in their own fitness and socialisation. Plus, adopting a pet has the extra benefit of providing a home for an animal in need.

Pets not only offer friendship and comfort, but they offer health benefits as well. According to the CDC, pets lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and combat loneliness.

So, what do you need to know before getting one? Should you get one? And should you adopt?

We're here to help. Read our list of nine things to consider when getting or adopting a pet.

Things to consider before getting a pet

Don’t rush into things

Doing research is important and will help ensure you make the right decision about getting a pet.

Answering questions about the type of pet you want and can take care of is vital. You don't want to make any rash decisions. When people rehome pets, it's often not because something is “wrong” with the pet. It's because the pet is wrong for the specific person who got them.

This can happen for a variety of reasons, like temperament and allergies. These rehomes could have been avoided with proper research.

It's really important to research your pet's breed beforehand. Our breed fact files can help with that.

While it's easy to rush into taking the first cute pet home, it is better to wait and know the decision is well thought out.

Take into account which pet is best for your lifestyle

Do you want a dog to hike or jog with? Maybe you prefer a cat who naps on your lap while you work from home?

Taking inventory of hobbies, interests, family and work is a good way to gauge which pet will work best.

If there's another animal in the home, that's another important lifestyle consideration. You should consider every aspect of your living arrangements. For example, a large dog can knock over young children, while you may need a smaller dog if you live in a flat.

Don't declaw cats

Years ago, declawing cats was a common practice for cat owners who worried cats would claw at furniture and carpeting.

According to the Humane Society, declawing cats hurts them. It can also have several side effects, like increased biting behaviours and resistance to litter boxes. It can also cause risks to the physical health of the cat, which includes infection and lameness.

Pet owners should understand the reasons behind scratching (to stretch muscles and mark territory), and they should work with their cats to train them to use scratching posts and have their nails trimmed when they begin scratching.

Don't declaw your cats.

Finances

Pets cost money. In total, there are:

• annual vet vaccinations

• spays or neuters

• preventative medication

• grooming

• daycare

• food

Factors like food aren't always simple either, as pet nutrition can take some trial and error.

Pets also need toys for stimulation and to prevent boredom, as well as items like beds, crates, litter, cages, and leads. These expenses can add up over the months and years.

Pets can get ill, too. Though pet insurance is available to cover many of those costs, the investment can be worth it. You should figure the monthly premium into your pet budget.

There is help if you're financially struggling. Some humane societies and veterinary clinics offer low-cost spay and neuter options, as well as medical services. They may also offer free or discounted pet food.

Your commitment to long-term pet care

You need to be in for the long term when it comes to getting a pet. It involves recognising that pet ownership is not a temporary arrangement. It's a lifelong commitment that spans years of companionship and care.

It means being there for them through every stage of life, adapting to their needs, and providing comfort and support.

Time and training

Your new pet may need training depending on how old the pet is and their previous living conditions. This takes both time and money.

Diligent at-home training is important for any pet you get. You may not need to pay for training; plenty of owners have learned how to train their pets at home. The benefits are numerous. They include a safer pet and home, bonding opportunities and having a good time!

Holidays and going out will be harder

You'll need to plan more if you're a regular holidaygoer. Of course, it's still possible, but you'll need to plan things around your pet. Dogs will need companionship, cats need fresh food and water, etc.

This requires finding someone to care for your pet while you’re away. Or if you're working long hours. Or if you're headed out for a late-night meal or dinner!

Daycare and boarding is an option for dogs and cats. But it can be expensive and you should figure it into your monthly or annual pet budget.

Of course, many hotels, resorts and even restaurants are pet-friendly, and taking your pet with you may be an option worth exploring.

In fact, we've listed our favourite pet-friendly places here.

Be prepared for the reality, not the fantasy

Many dream of pet ownership: envisioning the perfect lap cat or dog who rides in the back of the car for downtown adventures.

Instead, someone may end up adopting a cat who likes to sit on the opposite end of the couch or a dog who gets car sick. It's important to remember owning a pet may not live up to whatever you thought up.

Pets, like people, come with their own distinct personalities. The reality is your pet may be different than the one you dreamed of, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be the perfect pet for you.

Pet proofing your home

In the months leading up to bringing a baby home or before a toddler begins walking, parents child-proof their home. Things like outfitting cabinets with locks and moving hazards out of the way. Preparing for pets requires the same safe-proofing.

This may be as simple as putting a dog gate up. Or it could be making sure there are no hanging wires the cat can access. Knowing what's safe for your pet in terms of food, plants, and other chemicals around your home is vital for your pet’s safety. Even chewing gum, elastics, and ibuprofen pose threats.

Dogs are allergic to grapes and chocolate, and both cats and dogs can have lethal reactions to certain plants, which requires a thorough sweep of your garden and looking up potential issues with house plants.

In fact, we recommend making your garden pet-safe.

Spaying or neutering should be a consideration

Spaying or neutering your pet is an essential consideration for responsible pet ownership. Many rescue organisations and shelters require spaying or neutering as part of their policies.

It's a decision you should make in consultation with your vet to make sure of the best outcome for your pet's health and well-being.

Protecting them with insurance

Cat insurance and dog insurance are there to keep your pet, adopted or not, safe throughout their life.

You should always consider it, especially if you want to stay prepared.

Get £15,000 lifetime vet fee cover with our Complete policy.

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