6 Tips for successfully living with a new pet

With the recent Kitten Bowl, Westminster Dog Show, and American Rescue Dog Show now complete, many people may be thinking about bringing home a dog, cat, kitten, or puppy. Pets touch our hearts and warm our homes – they provide companionship, comfort, and comedy to our lives.

There is little else that lifts one’s spirits than to come home from a tough day at work or school and be happily greeted by a four-footed friend.  If you’re thinking of adding a pet to your home, here are six tips to help insure you and your new dog or cat will spend many happy years together:

1. Don’t get a pet on a whim, whether adopting or obtaining from a reputable breeder. Do your homework and seriously think about this important decision.  A pet should be for a lifetime, so make sure you’re ready to commit to that, and consider your lifestyle to help ensure the type of pet you’re considering best fits your home situation.
2. Never give a pet as a gift. Your lifestyle may be different from the person you’re thinking of gifting with a living creature, and that person may not even want a pet.  If you’re thinking of adopting a pet for your child remember that you as the adult will likely be the one taking care of the pet – if you’re okay with that, then adopt a pet as a FAMILY, with each person giving input and consideration.
3. Research! Various breeds of dogs, for example, have different personalities and needs; research the many breeds to help find the best fit for your family.  Cats also come in a variety of breeds and personalities; maybe one suits your lifestyle better than another. 
4. Consider your finances and be prepared for medical expenses. Pets require annual medical care, and, like people, animals can develop health issues due to genetics, accidents, or aging.  For example, most cats are litterbox-trained at a young age, but later in life they can develop kidney failure and may not use the box as regularly. You might consider acquiring pet insurance, but that too costs money.  Remember: nothing is free, not even a “free pet!”
5. Think about the future.  Are planning to have a baby in the next few years or do you think you might be moving soon?  The number one reason people give for relinquishing a pet to an animal shelter is “I’m moving.” Don’t let your pet be one of those statistics.
6. Train your pet.  Puppies often need to be housebroken, and all dogs need to know the basic commands of sit, stay, come, and no. Training helps insure your pet’s safety and also helps the two of bond more closely. And remember to train lovingly, not harshly. 

 
Having a pet makes a home more cozy, warm, and loving. Pets are devoted to their humans – they love us unconditionally – and like children, they depend on us for care.  Therefore, make sure you’re ready and that you’re willing to be faithful to your new furry friend, which can live 10 to 20 years.

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