This article is first published in theSun Buzz HERE
Now that we’ve hopefully convinced you to consider pet adoption, let’s take a look at some of the factors involved before getting a furkid.
Here are some factors to consider because caring for a pet is a serious and long term commitment.
Are you financially ready to care for a pet?
Pet care and accessories can cost a bomb. The expenditure does not only cover cute pet leashes, bowls and clothes. Pet owners have to consider the cost of future medical fees, food supply, grooming services and possibly pet boarding services.
Will your building or housing area allow you to keep pets?
Not all places allow tenants and residents to keep pets in the housing area and it’s unfair to impose or force everyone to put up with your new pet. Be a responsible and respectful owner by checking the rules and permissions before smuggling your pet into the house.
Are you prepared to clean after your new family member?
Most importantly, you have to be honest with yourself whether you’re willing to clean after your pets. Caring for a pet is similar to caring for a baby.
Pet owners will have to clean up after their pets by picking up poo, wiping up urine or emptying the litter.
Sadly, a lot of pets are abandoned simply because pet owners cannot cope with the responsibilities.
Do you travel a lot?
If you’re someone who frequently travels, it’s best not to keep a pet. Pets need constant care and attention.
Pets such as dogs need regular exercise and walks to prevent diseases such as osteoporosis.
If you still want to get a pet, make sure you have someone who’ll be happy to care for your pets every time you’re away or get ready to pay for pet boarding.
Is anyone at home allergic to animals?
One of the more pressing things to think about is whether anyone at home is allergic to animals. Your family member may not know that they have an allergy. To be safe, have everyone in the family meet with the pet first before deciding to bring it home.
Do you have time to train your pet?
Pet training requires time and lots of patience. Pets need to be trained as well if not they might destroy your house or attack other animals which will bring pet owners unnecessary stress.
Whether the pets are store-bought or adopted, it needs to be house trained and taken through obedience training with the owner.
Pet owners should find out beforehand if the animal has prior or ongoing health issues too and decide if they’re ready to provide extra and special care.
Is there enough space at home?
A factor that most people often forget to consider is the size of their home. Pets, especially larger pets, need ample space to move and run around comfortably.
It’ll be great if the neighbourhood has a pet-friendly park for daily walks with your furkids.
MORE RESOURCES
Find out:
1. Why you should adopt instead of shopping for pets.
2. Where you can adopt pets such as cats or dogs in Malaysia.
