Has there been more talk around the dinner table lately about adding a four-legged, furry friend to the family? Adding a new member to the family is fun and exciting, but can also be stressful and disruptive if you are not prepared for the responsibility and time commitment a family pet requires.  Here’s some thoughts to consider before making the adoption leap…

Is Everyone Comfortable Around Animals?

Some adults and kids alike are naturally afraid of animals, which may cause them to act erratically around a new pet - which in turn may confuse or upset an animal. While healthy respect for animals is important, all family members should be comfortable around the type of pet you are considering. If your child is fearful, do not force interaction; instead, show them how to properly interact, approach, and care for the pet and encourage them to participate, so they feel comfortable. 

Know How to Properly Treat an Animal

Before adopting a new pet, everyone in the family should understand how to take care of and nurture them. Dogs and cats are not toys. If an animals feel threatened or cornered, they may react defensively. Cats can also be shy and sometimes reactive, with the same considerations. Even some reptiles have special needs!

Pet adoption is not as simple as just bringing  home a new addition and returning to business as usual.  A new pet changes a whole lot of things! 

Is Everyone Committed to the Idea?

Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment, and everyone in the family needs to be on board. Everybody loves a puppy or a baby kitty, but those grow up, and live a long time… Think ahead 10-15 YEARS and be sure your plans coincide.  It’s also a great learning opportunity. Are the kids old enough and responsible enough to take on some of the tasks of  caring for a pet? If not, are the parent willing and able to pick up the slack?  

Other Considerations: 

Space: Do you have proper space for the type of pet you are considering? Bigger dogs take up a lot more space than just their footprint. The size of your home, and yard, if you have one, are big considerations, as is location and proximity to walking and exercise. Ample inside space is important, depending on which type of animal your considering, so you are not tripping over each other. In fairness, I should also warn you about your bed. (Enough said on that from a pet owner, with a King size bed, and two large dogs).

Mutual Fit:  There are also many different breeds to consider in finding the right mutual fit. It is wise to do some research on breeds before jumping in. Some shed, some don’t, energy level, temperament, etc. Cats are generally lower maintenance because they can be left alone for longer periods of time, but do still require love, attention, feedings, and a clean litter box.

Time Commitment:  Are members of the family home to walk and feed? Will the new pet get enough attention with work and school schedules, and activity commitments?  Many animals get separation anxiety when left alone for too long, and can also get bored, which can sometimes lead to unintentional destructive behaviors.

Cost:  Can you afford to care for your pet? Not only will there be an initial adoption cost but there is food (which can be spendy), treats, toys, accessories, vet bills, and boarding costs if you travel.

Training:  Dogs, in particular, come in many shapes, sizes, energy levels, and with a myriad of personalities and temperaments. Unfortunately, they don’t come with an instruction manual. In some cases, a pet from an adoption agency may have foundational training, which is a big plus. But in almost every case, a new puppy does not, and training is on their new owner. Training is very important, time intensive, and in some cases, animal specific. It can also be expensive if additional help is needed. Responsible pet ownership includes training, always.

Health Considerations: You should also consider if anyone in the family may have allergies, fears, or any other issues that may interfere with caring for an animal for several years. 

If chosen carefully, pets are a great addition to the family because they bring many years of unconditional love, companionship, and enjoyment.  On the contrary, impulsive decisions made while strolling or social scrolling can lead to an unpleasant and sometimes unfair (to the animal) outcome. Remember, pets don’t choose you, you choose them. Do some due diligence and contemplation should be first and foremost in the decision making process.