Things to Know Before Getting a Pet
Research shows that having a pet results in decreased blood pressure and cholesterol which, in turn, reduce the risk of heart disease. But most people don’t get a pet because it’s scientifically proven to be beneficial to health. People get pets because pets are awesome, loving, and they make great companions. Pets are extremely smart and emotionally intelligent so much so that the Canadian government has declared them to be sentient beings and not property. This is a major victory for all animal-rights activist groups. Now the question is how do you get yourself a pet? Here are five things to know if you want to get a pet.
1. It’s a big responsibility.
The amount of chores involved with getting various animals may differ but the biggest responsibility of having a pet is giving it love. You have to spend time with your pet, play with it, create and follow a meal schedule for them, among many other tasks. It’s crucial to note that while it’s a lot of fun to have a pet, taking care of a pet requires a lot of work. Assess your life to see if you have the time and willingness to dedicate yourself to a pet who will rely on you for everything (i.e. food, shelter, entertainment, love, etc.)
2. It can be costly.
It can cost up to a thousand dollars a year to sustain a pet, not including emergency trips to the vet. Check your budget to see if you have room for this expense. For starters, you have to buy a pet carrier, leash, toys, grooming tools, food utensils, and much more.
3. You need to prep your home.
Like parents of a newborn baby-proof their homes, you must also pet-proof your home. Dedicate a small space for the new family member. Remove any sharp objects and ensure that your backyard/balcony doesn’t have any plants that are poisonous for pets.
4. Training will take time.
The amount of time it takes to train a pet will differ by type of animal and the age you brought it into your home. This period can seem like a lot of work but if it’s all about how you approach things. If you see every little task as a chore, then the whole experience will be cumbersome. But if you take every step as it comes and look forward to what’s coming, the journey will be more beautiful than even the destination.
5. Pet insurance comes handy!
When it comes to pet insurance, it’s better to be safe than sorry! A friend of mine had to shell out $1500 to the animal hospital for treating his cat for a urinary blockage. Though you have to pay a couple of hundred dollars for the yearly deductible, pet insurance is still worth it. Shop around for a plan with the most value so that it pays off to have it in a time of crisis.
