Bringing home a dog or a cat is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Undoubtedly, happy tail wags, rumbling purrs, and oodles of cuddles make having a pet extra-special.
But pets aren’t just snuggles and warm-fuzzy feelings. They’re long-term commitments that change your life completely, so make sure you’re ready before you get a new furry friend.
9 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Pet
Don’t set foot in a shelter, adopt a pet, or visit a reputable breeder until you’ve carefully considered how a pet will reshape your life. Owning a dog or cat comes with numerous responsibilities, including adjustments to your finances, routines, and home. Therefore, ask yourself these fundamental questions before bringing home a cat or dog.
1. Why Do You Want a Pet?
People want pets for all different reasons, whether it’s companionship, a guardian for the kids, or to give a rescue animal a second chance. All of these are valid, but it’s vital to be aware of the primary reason you want a pet.
If you feel lonely and simply think a dog or cat will fill the gaps, you need to be prepared to do the work that comes along with having a pet. Pets require time, attention, and much more, so are you willing to give what it takes to get something back in return?
Plus, knowing your why will also influence the pet you choose. For example, if you want a dog to accompany you on active hikes and adventurous travel excursions, a Shih Tzu wouldn’t be your best match.
2. Do You Live a Pet-Friendly Lifestyle?
As much as you may want a pet, first, it’s essential to be honest with yourself about whether your lifestyle meshes with pet parenting. Your daily routine dramatically influences the type of pet you can realistically care for.
For example, dogs typically require more hands-on time and structure than cats. However, cats still crave attention and contact, so if you’re never home, it might not be the best time to get a fur baby.
Think about how long you’re away each day. Are you home long enough to provide regular care for a pet? Do you travel frequently, and if so, would you take your pet with you or get a sitter?
Your lifestyle isn’t just a determinant of whether or not to get a pet. It also guides which specific pet you get.
Maybe you live an active lifestyle and want a dog that can keep up with you. On the other hand, perhaps you prefer a quiet, calm home and want a laid-back feline that appreciates relaxing most of the day.
3. Can You Afford a Pet?
This question is a big one because many new pet parents underestimate the financial commitment of having a dog or cat. It’s not just about the upfront costs of breeder or adoption fees. Pets come with ongoing costs that can surprise you if you haven’t planned for them.
There are routine expenses, like food, litter, grooming, flea and tick prevention, and treats. You need supplies upfront, but also have to replace them regularly, such as toys, beds, leashes, crates, litter scoops, and pet bowls.
Additionally, veterinary costs and healthcare expenses can add up super quickly. There are regular vet checkups each year, vaccinations, and also emergency care for when the unexpected happens. (And you can expect that the unexpected will happen.)
Between all of the costs of routine care, health expenses, and add-ons like boarding, pet sitters, dog walkers, professional dog trainers, etc., you can spend thousands a year on your pet. Plus, as your pet ages, they’ll require more care. So think through what you can comfortably afford before you choose a pet, because these costs can stay with you for a decade or more.
4. Is Your Home Ready for a Pet?
Consider where you live before getting a pet. Some living situations suit certain pets better than others. For example, if you live in a small apartment, a cat or a small dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise is a better option than one that needs a lot of space, like a large-breed dog.
If you rent, you need to find out if pets are allowed, and if so, will there be an extra monthly charge? Do you have a fenced-in yard, live near a dog park, or have the ability to create a catio space for your cat?
Are you able to pet-proof your home? Preparing your home ahead of time is important for your pet’s safety (and your furniture’s well-being, too).
5. How Will a Pet Affect Everyone in Your Household?
Getting a pet affects anyone living in the home, so it’s important to discuss it with everyone and consider how a pet will affect each person. Make sure everyone is on board with the idea of getting a pet and include them in the decision-making process.
Consider if anyone has allergies, how you’ll divvy up the pet-parenting responsibilities, and create a schedule together. If you have children, look for pets that get along well with kids. Do you have other pets? Make sure a new dog or cat is a good match.
6. Do You Have Time to Address Training and Behavioral Needs?
Even the most laid-back pets require training and guidance. Dogs thrive when they have consistency, socialization, and clear boundaries. Potty training is a must, good leash etiquette is vital, and knowing how to behave around other animals and people is critical.
Cats, despite their reputation for independence, need guidance, too. You’ll have to help them adjust to their new home, implement scratching deterrents as you teach them the appropriate places to flex their claws, etc.
Behavior challenges are possible from both dogs and cats, whether it’s anxiety, avoiding the litter box, or hyperactivity. Be ready to give the help needed and to call in a professional if necessary.
7. Have You Considered the Long-Term Commitment of Having a Pet?
A pet isn’t a temporary change. Your new dog or cat will be a commitment that’s with you for 10, even 20 years (maybe more!). During that timeframe, your life will change in many ways, whether it’s moving, having kids, getting married, or undergoing financial or health challenges.
Make sure you can weather these changes while still providing steady care to your pet. When you bring home a cat or dog, they become a part of your family, and you need to be ready to include them in your future plans.
8. Have You Researched Various Breeds?
Breed traits can influence everything from energy levels to grooming needs and also play potential roles in health risks and behavior. Some people choose a pet solely based on looks or trends, but it’s vital to think about the whole package.
Additionally, individual personality matters, too, so spend time with the dog or cat you’re considering. Foster if you’re not sure. It’s best to find a pet that suits your lifestyle and you.
9. Do You Have a Support System or the Budget to Get Help as Needed?
Life happens, and you’ll deal with illness, emergencies, long workdays, unexpected trips, and other curveballs. Do you have people in your life, like trusted family or friends, who can help care for your pet when you’re away?
Do you have the financial means to cover boarding fees, doggy daycare, or pet sitters if an emergency arises? Make sure to have a backup plan in place before you get a pet.
Make Sure You’re Prepared to Bring Home a Pet (and Everything That Goes Along With One)
Undeniably, pets fill your home and your life with love and joy, but they also come with noise, mess, chaos, and responsibility. Make sure you’re ready to handle the lows along with the highs, and embrace imperfection.
Ask yourself the important questions before you bring home a dog or a cat so you know for sure you’re ready for the commitment and the changes ahead. When you’re prepared for both the joyful and challenging moments, you set the stage for a healthy, happy bond that will last for years.
Need more tips on bringing home a new pet? You can find lots of other resources, info, and ideas in the Neater Pets blog.