Bringing home a pet is an exciting time in one’s life. A recent survey conducted in the United States estimated that approximately 67 percent of homes had at least one pet. Many people underestimate the preparation needed before bringing their pet home. It’s not just about having cute pet clothes, a big doghouse, cool toys or even capturing adorable pet content. In many ways, it’s similar to a woman expecting a child: you should take the same nine months to prepare for your pet. Here’s what to expect when getting a pet, so you’re not blindsided—especially during those first few days of bonding with your furry friend.
1. Routine Is Important
You have to remember it’s no longer about you. Just like people have morning and nighttime routines, your pet needs one too. Your pet does not care if you have thirty minutes left in your show. They have to use the bathroom. So you have to work out a routine for feeding times, play time, bathroom breaks and sleep schedules. It builds consistency.
On the other hand, it’s important for your pet’s well-being. Having an unpredictable schedule can create anxiety in certain pets. Pets not getting enough play time or attention can cause depression and sometimes obesity in pets. They have to constantly be active, and having that routine helps keep your pet and yourself regulated.
2. Vet Care Isn’t Optional
A study conducted on behalf of Synchrony’s pet and vet financial solution, CareCredit, shares that “74 percent [of] pet owners say they have faced unexpected pet care costs exceeding $250.” Regular vet visits, preventative care and emergency visits are all things to consider. Certain pet hospitals and pet care facilities offer monthly memberships that include routine visits, vaccinations, and general check-ups. But that does not include if your pet needs meds. So you also have to consider getting pet insurance.
3. Spontaneity Becomes Limited
According to a U.S. Pet Grooming & Boarding Market Report, “U.S. pet grooming and boarding market is expected to grow from $10.22 Billion in 2023, to reach $15.8 Billion in 2029.”
Say goodbye to last-minute trips. You have to properly plan for when you will be away from your pets. Pet daycare and pet boarding become a part of your logistics. On average, it’s about $50 to $60 a day to keep your dog at a boarding place. That does not include food, special activities and more. Also, you have to factor in, especially for dogs, that if your dog is not spayed or neutered, they cannot interact in group play with other dogs. So it’ll cost extra for one-on-one play time with an associate. Your pet must be up to date on all of their shots to be accepted for boarding.
You have to start planning ahead. It’s just like having a child. You need to make sure the facilities are safe and that the person watching your pet is certified and doing your pet right.
4. Breed-Specific Traits Matter
You have to understand the type of breed you’re bringing home. Understanding your pet’s breed-specific traits is super important. Every pet or breed is not the same, and requires different things. Pets vary in energy levels, sociability and grooming needs, as well as in behavioral tendencies such as anxiety, aggression or independence.
According to the Dog Welfare Project, “Behavioral issues account for 28 percent of dog surrenders, and when looking at returns specifically, behavioral problems represent nearly 60 percent of cases.” It’s best to find a pet that fits your lifestyle. Some pets require more exercise than others. Some pets require more grooming than usual or even need professional grooming, including sedation grooming. Some pets may require minimal attention, and you don’t have to worry so much about walks and play time. But you have to know what kind of pet you’re getting.
Having a pet is just like having a child. You can prepare as much as you want, but there will still be things you’re not ready for. There are moments where having a pet will be messy, unpredictable and chaotic. However, what’s most important is that the preparation pays off in small moments.
Featured image credit: Vlada Karpovich via Pexels
