Thinking of adopting a pet, it smart to first weigh the costs and benefits of owing it. We often get excited about the prospects of having a pet that we forget the important factors to consider before having one.
If you are considering having a pet in your family, it could be helpful first to read over the following lists of pros and cons of adopting a pet.
Here are few CON to consider when adopting a pet.
1. LIVING EXPENSES
When adopting a pet, there are the initial costs like a collar, grooming items, a leash, a little box, a scratching post, and other miscellaneous things needed immediately after adoption. As a dependent, a pet will add to the cost of living expenses.
It is very important to factor the cost of grooming a pet, especially when you are doing it yourself, here are a list of items needed to achieve it, a brush or comb, scissors, nail clippers, ear cleaning solution, pet-friendly shampoo, and conditioner.
It’s also important to note that you need to have a pet professional to help in grooming, which will either be a monthly or bi-monthly expenses.
For new pet parent, before welcoming a new pet into your home, you may also need to spend money on pet-proofing your home to make it habitable, this include purchasing gates, a fence, or bins to store toxic and unhealthy items.
For the pet parents who are renting, they will also need to factor in the costs of pet rent; many rental properties also charge a pet deposit fee, which may not always be reimbursed. A reoccurring monthly fee that could cost more if you have multiple pets or a large breed dog.
2. CARING FOR THEM WHEN YOU ARE AWAY
Here is another vital aspect of owning a pet; caring for them when you are away for an extended period of time, you may need to find a sitter, boarder, or doggie daycare all this are also added expense.
A lot of pet lover’s jobs and lifestyle are not built around having a pet, it is expedient to make a lifestyle change suiting for yourself and your pet. For instance if you often work a 12-hours shifts, or work overtime, this period is not an ideal time to welcome a pet. How you travel, number of days and time you need to work and other social activities need to be considered.
Note: that it is very important to have a lifestyle that is pet-friendly.
3. TIME CONSUMPTION
It’s important to do breed research before opting for pet adoption. This will help you to have first-hand knowledge and proper understanding of what your pet will need attention-wise.
Bringing an animal into your home is just like bringing a child into your space, they require your time for feeding, training and grooming. No matter how independent that breed is, your attention is required for a healthy pet.
Cleaning up after your pet and tiding up your home is time-consuming. Pets waste is a necessary chores that should not be ignored, plus dogs and cats mostly make mess indoors- especially when you have a breed that sheds a lot.
Having pets around, involves having a clean and healthy environment that require sweeping, dusting, and mopping on a regular bases.
Time is need to attend to your pet when they are sick, injured or need to visit their veterinarian.
Studies have shown that an average life span of dogs or cats anywhere is 10-18 years, this means that while adopting one you are agreeing to a long term commitment for always been there for them. Looking after a pet is a big responsibility, but when you consider all it benefits they are worthwhile. The responsibilities of having a pet is not a chore-they are soothing routine that helps people focus and organize their days
4. ALLERGIES
This is very crucial and needs a lot of sensitive to deal with; especially if you don’t know what you’re allergic to, bearing in mind that allergies grow worse when you are exposed to allergen.
If you are unsure of your animal allergies, pet sitting for a friend or spending time volunteering for an animal shelter might be something you want to try first.
Now let’s look at few PROS of having pets
1. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND COMPANIONSHIP
The unconditional love pets have for its lovers is amazing and priceless. There nothing like coming home to a four-legged family who is very thrilled to see you.
A pet is someone you can trust, walk, snuggle with, hang out with, accompany you on a ride, or hang with on a couch. The companionship of a pet can improve your mental health and overall well-being.
Although children are not left out, because having pets bring out the caring and loving nature in a child, giving them that sense of responsibility. They help people learn valuable lessons in patience and understanding.
2. PROVIDE HOME SAFETY
Before owning a pets make sure that it is the right one for you and your family. Ask specific questions and do some research beforehand about the specie, this research helps you select dog breeds based on their guarding, watching, smiling and its ability to alert.
Having a four-legged pet is an added advantage, providing us with the safety and comfort needed against intruders. A vocal pets can alert you of strangers and any suspicious activity outside your home.
If you are a loner having a four-legged friend is also an added comfort, they help to reduces boredom and improve our social activities.
Studies shows that dogs and cats have been able to detect fires, and gas leakages at home, alerting its owner that there is a situation occurring at home.
3. ABILITY TO NURTURE
Majority of pet lovers or pet parents truly enjoy being able to nurture their pets returning the unconditional love that dogs and cats give. Nurturing process increases the bounding between its owner and the animal.
Pets parenting can be very rewarding and enjoyable especially for those who don’t want any children of their own; you won’t have a divided attention, giving your dog or cat the quality and maximum time needed.
If you have children, a pet is an excellent addition to your family- you will be surprised how your kids and pets bound and become best friends. Introducing an animal to your children gives them that sense of responsibility, they learn giving, sharing and caring.
4. IMPROVES MENTAL HEALTH
Across the globe, pets of all types have proven to improve the mental challenges of its owner. From helping those with depression, to helping those with post-traumatic stress disorder. Not only does this findings bring hope to those with health challenges, it also means that every anxiety and stress can be greatly decreased by spending quality time with your pet.
Having a pet is also a powerful way to keep yourself mentally functional. No matter what kind of pet you get, you are sure to experience increase joy and love which helps in boasting our mental and physical health.
