A pet is the perfect addition to any family but it is also a huge commitment!
So, before you start searching through the Pets for sale from Freeads, there are a few things you need to consider.
- Are you ready to get a pet?
Or, perhaps more importantly, are your children ready to get a pet? Owning a pet comes with a lot of responsibility and you all need to be ready for this! If you have young children who are currently taking up all your time and attention, is adding a pet to the mix a good idea? Animals are particularly demanding when you first get them, as they are young and still learning – in the same way your children are. Are you willing and do you have the time and patience to get through this stage – or would it be better to wait until your children are a bit older?
- Which pet is right for you?
There are many pets to choose from – some have far less requirements than others. A fish, for example, requires a few flakes to be added to their tank each day and cleaning out around once a week. However, if you were to get a puppy, they need constant care and attention – training, long walks, affection as well as restricting the time you can be out of the house as they can’t be left alone for hours and hours. In order to choose the right pet you need to ask yourself a few questions. How much time do I have? What can I afford? What pet would be best considering the age and behaviour of my children? What animal is my home appropriate for?
- Can you afford it?
Pets aren’t cheap – and buying them is only the start of the expense. According to veterinary charity People’s Dispensary Sick Animals, the lifetime cost of owning a cat is estimated to be around £17,000 whilst a dog can cost up to £31,000! Depending on the pet you choose they could be with you for at least 15 years – over this time you will need to pay for food, vet bills (which can be thousands), accessories, toys and so on.
- Do you have the time?
Pets will take up far more of your time than you perhaps think! If you are out of the house for nine hours a day, then a dog is probably not the pet for you. Likewise, if you like to disappear for last minute holidays or weekend getaways you will need to consider who could look after your pet – which will also be another expense.
- Is your home appropriate for a pet?
If you are renting a top floor flat in the centre of a busy city, then you are restricted on the pet you can get. A dog, for example, would not be a good idea, but a goldfish or hamster would be fine.
Owning a pet is an extremely rewarding experience. They will become part of your family, teaching your children skills and responsibility as they grow whilst showing you unconditional love and providing hours of fun. However, it is important to remember a pet is for life, so make sure you consider the above carefully before bringing a kitten or puppy into your family. Realising a few months in that you weren’t ready or can’t afford it will be heartbreaking for both you and your pet!
Leave a Reply