There are many questions that veterinarians that get asked over and over again.
What food should I feed my dog? How do I trim my cat’s nails? What medication should I use for parasite prevention? Just to name a few. There is, however, one topic upon which I wish more pet owners would seek advice – Is my family ready to adopt a pet and what type of pet should we get?
Bringing a new pet into your home will mean a lot of change. A little preparation can go a long way. Please consider some of these things before bringing home a new dog or cat.
Remember that pet ownership is a lifetime commitment. A large breed dog might live 10 years, a small breed dog could live 16 years, and a cat might live over 20 years! A pet can be a significant financial investment. Food, training, vet visits, spay/neuter and unexpected emergencies can add up! Please ensure that you have the resources to offer a happy and healthy home – even in times of trouble. How much time do you have to give to your pet each day? Dogs need exercise and stimulation. Cats need to be brushed and played with. Puppies need to be trained, which can mean long days and sleepless nights. Kittens can be very mischievous if left unsupervised for prolonged periods of time! Please consider if your commitments will keep you out of the house for many hours a day. What would you like to do with your pet? The answer to this will help you decide what type of pet and what breed my suit you best. Do you have any big life changes coming up? If so, please reconsider getting a new pet. A time of big upheaval or stress is not a good time to bring a new life into your home.
Before you make the huge decision to bring a pet into your life, please take some time – do your research, decide what you want ahead of time to avoid impulse adoptions and ask lots and lots of questions! Any of the veterinarians at Coxwell Animal Clinic would be happy to guide you through your choices.
Written by: Dr. Alana Kestelman, DVM
