Before You Decide to Adopt A Pet

Handsome boy Hershey is waiting patiently for just the right family

Bringing a pet into your life is a huge decision and should never be made lightly. Animals are cute, funny and loving, but they are a huge financial, temporal and emotional commitment. A new pet can be exciting and rewarding, but the adjustment period can be frustrating.

Are you ready for a pet?

Before you head to the shelter to adopt your first furry friend, it’s important to consider if you are at a good point in your life to adopt a pet. If you have a new baby, work long hours or travel frequently for work, it may not be the best time to think about bringing in a new family member. Of course, every situation is different and every family should have a discussion about how a new pet will affect their day to day life. Dogs and cats can live well into their teens, so it’s also important to consider whether you are ready for such a long term commitment. Remember, never adopt a pet without discussing it with your partner or roommate first!

Hidden costs

Adoption fees may not be very high for shelter pets, but there are many subsequent costs to consider when adopting a pet. If you rent your home or apartment, there may be pet restrictions or fees to consider, some of them non-refundable. One time purchases like beds, collars, bowls, doggie doors, leashes and harnesses should all be considered when making your decision. Food, treats, cleaning supplies, litter, toys and other items will need to be restocked consistently. Yearly vaccinations, check-ups, dental care, heartworm preventative and grooming are occasional expenses that you should also factor in. While it isn’t fun to think about, there is always the possibility that your pet will become injured or ill and require veterinary attention, which can be very costly. Before you jump at the price tag on that sweet shelter pup, remember that there are numerous additional expenses you are committing to when taking responsibility for that animal’s well-being.

Pets are messy!

Even housetrained dogs and litterbox trained cats are likely to have accidents their first few weeks in a new home. Cats may knock your grandmother’s vase off the shelf or scratch up your new couch, while your new dog may chew your favorite pair of shoes or steal an entire pizza off the counter. You can pet proof your home as much as you want, but chances are there is something you’ll miss and you’ll end up with the contents of a garbage bag strewn across your living room or a mountain of shredded toilet paper in the bathroom. Prepare yourself for the inevitable mess that comes with adopting a new pet. If you don’t think you would be able to tolerate any incidents like the ones described above, perhaps you may want to consider the type of pet you choose to adopt. A rabbit, guinea pig or rat that primarily keeps their mess to their own space may be a better choice for your lifestyle.

We adore our pets, but experienced pet owners are familiar with all of the frustrations that can come with your first pet. It can be a stressful learning experience, but ultimately worth it for the love we share with these precious creatures. If you feel you and your family are fully prepared to bring a new best friend into your home, we encourage you to stop by one of our adoption centers to meet them today!