Making the decision to own a pet is a major one; though it may seem like nothing but fun at first, you’ll soon come to realize just how difficult it is to be responsible for an animal. It’s not unlike having a child, especially if you choose a puppy or younger dog who needs lots of attention and guidance.
It’s important, therefore, to ensure you make the right choices from the very beginning. This means choosing the right dog for you, making sure you have the correct environment for such an animal, and doing your research before making any decisions. Some dogs are predisposed for disease or other health issues; rescue animals may be extremely wary of new people, sights, and sounds for months and require lots of special attention.
Read on for a few tips on how to make the right choices when it comes to owning a pet.
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Choosing the right animal for you is super important. You’ll need to take into account your environment, your availability, and your own disposition when choosing a pet. For instance, cats tend to be affectionate but not needy, while dogs need lots of attention and love and require exercise every day. If you lead a busy lifestyle, a dog might not be the best choice. A small home with a small backyard isn’t ideal for a large dog, so that’s another thing to take into account. Think about what sort of pet is best for you before making any decisions.
Prepare your home
Before you acquire a pet, it’s best to make sure your home is prepared. Buy bedding, bathroom necessities, food and dishes, and toys ahead of time, and have them ready. Rescue animals might prefer a kennel to sleep in, as is helps them feel secure. You’ll also want to look around your home for any safety issues, such as toxic plants or trip hazards, and consider installing a fence if your home doesn’t already have one. In Brooklyn, NY, the average cost to have a fence installed ranges from $1,896 to $5,400.
Break him in gently
Whether your pet is a rescue or from a breeder, it’s important to break him in gently when it comes to bringing him home. This means having a quiet environment and only introducing him to immediate family members at first. Keep things calm and allow him to investigate your home at his pace, so he can get used to it. In fact, you might consider bringing him home while it’s just the two of you, so he can sniff around in peace.
Be patient
Owning a pet can be a huge transition for both of you, so try to remain patient as he becomes accustomed to his new home. There may be accidents from time to time, even after your pet has lived with you for a while and especially if he’s older. If this happens, don’t raise your voice; simply direct him outside and clean the mess. If the accidents occur on your carpets, consider having them steam-cleaned, since old smells can lead to new accidents.
Owning a pet is a big responsibility that can change both your lives and is not a decision to be taken lightly. Make sure you are completely prepared for pet ownership before taking the plunge, and talk to your family members about their role in helping him stay safe and healthy. This will keep both you and your pet happy for years to come.
Article by Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet.