There\u2019s a bit of thinking that goes into adopting a new cat or dog. To make sure you\u2019re making a thoughtful decision for both you and your future pet, we\u2019re dishing out some tips to keep in mind for when it’s time to commit to that fur-ever kind of love.<\/p>\n
Ask yourself, are you ready to adopt?<\/strong> \u2022 Do I have the time it takes to train, play, feed, walk, cuddle, etc.? Pets are an emotional investment<\/strong> When you adopt, you run the risk of bringing home a pet that has quite a developed personality. Your dog or cat could suffer from anxiety or one that has endless energy \u2013 to which you will have to keep up. No matter what quirks your pet brings to the table, you need to have the emotional stamina to be a source of positive and endless comfort for them.<\/p>\n Do you have the money?<\/strong> When you adopt, you\u2019re asked to pay an adoption fee that actually lowers your first-year costs. Cat adoption can cost anywhere from $34 to $276, while the cost for adopting a dog can range from $118 to $667, according to the Animal Humane Society<\/a>. These fees often include but are not limited to deworming medication, a return period, spay\/neutering if necessary, flea\/tick treatment, and a physical examination. Adoption fees make the cost of the first year a lot lower, but it\u2019s smart to evaluate your finances to make sure you can afford your four-legged partner for years to come.<\/p>\n Know the requirements<\/strong>
\nAt a time when the word commitment leaves a thought bubble lingering over your head, you must be comfortable with the idea when adopting your pet<\/a>. You\u2019re looking at 10 to 15 years spent with a pup and possibly up to 20 years of lovin\u2019 for a cat.\u00a0If you\u2019re in a constant battle with the heart and the head, ask yourself some critical questions like:<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 Do I have the means to pay for vet visits, possible health issues, food, toys, and pet deposits?
\n\u2022 Do I have the perfect space this pet deserves to grow up in?<\/p>\n
\nDogs and cats are notorious for giving us cheeky grins and unconditional love. According to Psychology Today<\/a>, “…dogs can provide support and a sense of calm for our daily emotional and psychological stresses, as well as traumatic events.” While we have these needs, so do our pets.<\/p>\n
\nWe love our pets, but they are costly. In an article from the\u00a0New<\/a> York<\/a> T<\/a>imes<\/a>, a survey showed that dog owners spent almost $2,000 in one year, while cat owners trailed behind at $1,200. Granted, this is an average that does not include unforeseen health issues, excessive vet visits, dental visits, etc. What it does include is food, litter, one or two vet visits, and annual shots.<\/p>\n
\nOften times, adopting a pet isn\u2019t as simple as going to the shelter and following your gut. Some rescue facilities and shelters have adoption fees and applications that may require you to tick off some special boxes. It\u2019s good to know what those are beforehand so that you can be sure that you\u2019re qualified before arriving at the shelter. Once you\u2019re at the shelter, ask questions and work through the application with the staff. Don\u2019t forget that asking questions is key in this process so that your shelter can adequately guide you in choosing your pet.<\/p>\n