Whatever your choice of pet is, it is important to adequately plan for their arrival and maintenance while keeping many factors in mind. Getting a pet is like adding a new member to the family because the pet now has to be considered in most decisions made especially the ones directly affecting it. Before getting a pet, certain things must be put in place in order to preserve the health of the pet and that of the people taking care of it. So if you are thinking of getting one or more pets, here are some suggestions on things you should do:
1. Check your health: If this is your first time of ever having a pet, you have to check whether you have any allergic reactions or intolerance to the pet. For example, it is not advisable to get a dog if their fur makes you sneeze, so make sure that your pet agrees with your health.
2. Check its health: Ensure you register your pet at a suitable vet clinic near you where it can easily be taken to for vaccines and treatment. Registering it at a clinic will help to keep you and your pet safe from zoonotic infections and diseases.
3. Check your pocket: Having a cute little dog might seem nice and achievable, but have you really determined the cost of feeding and maintaining the dog? This question must be asked each time you think of getting a pet because their feed and routine vet clinic visits are not cheap. One has to be financially prepared before adopting a pet so that their needs will not bore a hole inside the person’s pocket.
4. Check your schedule: You have to be sure that you can handle a pet amidst a busy schedule and little time. A pet will take a good part of your time which you must be willing to give so as to maintain your master-pet relationship. It wouldn’t be nice if you forget to feed your pet because you were rushing out to work in the morning or fail to take it out for a walk in the evening. Just like human beings, some domestic animals have the ability to feel and connect emotionally. Don’t neglect them.
So before deciding that you need a pet, make sure that you check the above, be convinced that getting a pet is the best option for you, and accept fully the responsibilities that come with having a pet.