How Do You Know You Are Ready for a Family Pet?

With the holidays coming up many families consider getting a new pet for their kids.  But is your family ready?  This is such an important decision for a family.  As a family who volunteers at a pet rescue shelter we see so many animals that are such good animals but for some reason became too much for their owners.  



How Do You Know You Are Ready for a Family Pet?
by Michaela Schmidt

Petfinder estimates that approximately 57 percent of households in America own at least one cat or dog. If you are in the 43 percent that doesn't have a pet, your children may be begging for a cat or dog. So how do you know if your household is really ready for a pet? Before you start looking, it is important to evaluate your own readiness and determine if a pet is right for your home.

A Lifetime Commitment

Dogs and cats may not live as long as humans, but they do live for a significant period of time. The average lifespan of dogs is eight to 16 years, while the average lifespan for cats is between 13 and 17 years. Before you entertain the idea of bringing a pet into your home, you must be ready to fulfill this commitment with your pet. It isn't fair for a dog or cat to come into a home, only to be given up in a couple of years because the family is no longer capable of their care. While the unexpected can happen, consider the life changes that can happen over this period of time, such as children growing up or moving, and use that information to decide if pet ownership is right for you.

Proper Pet Care

Caring for a pet is more than feeding them and making sure they have enough to drink. Pets require veterinary care on a yearly basis, more if they become ill in between visits. Dogs and cats need specific vaccinations to remain healthy and should be checked every year for health problems that must be addressed. The vet can also answer any questions you have, including what to feed your pet and how to keep him healthy.

In addition to potentially expensive veterinary care, dogs need training and cats require someone to clean the litter box. Even if you use the self-cleaning litter box by PetSafe, someone must be in charge of keeping the clean litter filled and the soiled litter removed. Dogs will need to be housebroken and walked, as well as trained to behave well around other people. Pets are a lot of fun, but they are also a lot of work.

Money Considerations

There are many ways to obtain a pet, some of which are cheaper than others. The bottom line is if you want a pet, there is a way to get one. However, pets require a financial commitment beyond a purchase price or adoption fee. Veterinary visits will cost about $200 per year, according to Investopedia. You will also be responsible for the cost of food, toys, grooming and more. However, in addition to these monthly costs, it is important to have money set aside in case of emergency veterinary needs, which can ring up thousands of dollars in bills. Pet insurance can help reduce these costs.

Age and Maturity of Children

Another important consideration is the age and maturity of your children. If you expect your children to care for the pet, including feeding, scooping litter boxes, taking outside and even playing, you have to be sure your children are mature enough to handle the responsibility. Buying a mechanical pet or another item that requires care can be a great way to prepare your child for caring for a pet. Discuss your pet's needs with your child before bringing it home. Books can be a great tool as well. Remember that if your child does not care for the pet, you will have to because it isn't fair for the dog or cat to go without.



Michaela Schmidt

Michaela is a former public relations specialist turned stay-at-home home mom who enjoys reading, making crafts and antiquing.