Originally posted on January 19, 2020 @ 9:48 am
When it comes to getting a pet, it is important to look before you leap. There is no point in getting a pet that cannot fit into your home or lifestyle. And ownership of a pet or pet ownership means the owner is responsible for keeping them happy and healthy. Dogs need company. Before you get a pet, you will have to consider seriously whether a new character will fit well with your present home arrangements. Dogs in particular are very social animals; they do not appreciate being left on their own. A lone dog needs lots of company from humans. It is important not to leave them alone for more than about four hours in a day, as dogs left alone can become bored, which can cause them to be destructive or start bouts of barking. And they need to be ‘socialised’ – meeting new humans and animals – in the first few weeks of life. If they are not socialised early, they can become either timid or aggressive, neither of which is desirable.
* Will your pet be all right on its own or does it need company?
* Can you afford the new pet?
* Will your lifestyle be able to accommodate a pet?
* How long will your pet live? In other words, how long will you have to pay for it?
* Who will care for your pet while you are on holiday?
* Do you have the time to care properly for your pet? Can you go the distance? The amount of time and exercise a pet needs varies greatly. A border collie dog needs about seven kilometres exercise every day, which can be a big commitment to a busy pet owner. A cat on the other hand can exercise itself. Both cats and dogs need regular grooming and long-haired animals need more than short-haired.Veterinarians recommend that dogs should be vaccinated, neutered, insured and micro-chipped. They also need regular treatment for worms and fleas. Insurance is becoming increasingly widespread and necessary.

Warren Savage is a complete animal lover, with a fondness for Burmese cats and dachshunds. He writes on animal care and behaviour for a range of websites and blogs.