Discussing Everything You Need To Know Before You Adopt A Pet In Honor Of Responsible Pet Owners Month
Being a pet owner is a very special and worthwhile experience that everyone should have at least once. However, being a pet owner is a big responsibility. Raising and caring for a living creature is a serious endeavor that should not be taken lightly. That’s why the month of February is celebrated as Responsible Pet Owners Month!
This month-long pet-themed holiday is all about recognizing and acknowledging what it means to be a responsible pet owner. This article will take an in-depth look at this holiday, what it means to be a responsible pet owner, and what you need to know before adopting a pet.
A Holiday That Promotes Responsibility
Responsible Pet Owners Month aims to promote responsible pet ownership everywhere. Whether it be negligence or lack of education, some pet owners fall short of their responsibilities to their pets. Pets rely on their owners to provide them with basic care. This includes food, water, shelter, space, veterinary care, and love.
Responsible Pet Owners Month is helping to raise the standard of quality pet care. Additionally, this holiday focuses on educating pet owners on how to properly care for their pets. By providing the proper resources and information, pet owners everywhere can learn to give their pets the best life possible. That’s something worth celebrating!
Before You Adopt
There are many things to consider before adopting a pet. Some of these things may seem like common sense. But, not everyone considers or respects these aspects of pet ownership. Here are just a few important things to consider before adopting a pet.
Choosing The Right Pet For You
Different species of pets come with different needs and responsibilities. Therefore, it’s important that you do some research about the pet before you adopt them. Adopt a pet that fits your lifestyle, your personality, and your interests. For example, dogs need daily exercise and potty breaks roughly 2 to 3 times a day. If your daily schedule doesn’t allow for this, then maybe a dog isn’t the best choice for you.
Cost Preparation
Before adopting a pet, consider the annual cost it will take to care for them. According to the A.S.P.C.A., the average cost to own a cat is $634 a year. Additionally, Pettable reports that the average cost of owning a dog (in Pennsylvania) is $1,819. Therefore, we recommend only adopting a pet if you can afford to care for them.
Prepare Your Home
Before bringing your new pet home, make sure your home is pet-friendly. Similar to baby-proofing a home, this entails making your home a safe environment for your pet. For example, removing or storing away any toxic plants, cleaners, medications, or hazardous substances.
Additionally, be sure there are no exposed electrical wires that your new pet can chew on. Both dogs and cats are notorious for chewing on things they’re not supposed to. Also, be sure there is plenty of space in your home for your new pet. This is especially true for large dogs with lots of energy. Ideally, create an environment that is conducive for your new pets’ needs.
A Lifelong Commitment
Being a pet owner is not just a commitment, it’s a lifelong commitment. Depending on the type of pet, you could be caring for them for over a decade. Some reptiles, like turtles, live for an average of 40 to 50 years! The average lifespan of a pet is something you should strongly consider before adopting. Only adopt a pet if you are willing to commit to them for their entire life.
For more information on how to be a responsible pet owner, click here.
Looking For A Pet Sitter Or Dog Walker?
If you or someone you know is looking for a pet sitter or dog walker, then look no further than My Dog Walker & Pet Sitting. We are fully insured & bonded and have over 10 years of experience working with animals. Click here to check out our wide variety of pet sitting services including in-home pet sitting and routine dog walking.
We currently service the Medford, Medford Lakes, Shamong, and Tabernacle, NJ areas. To become a client, click here or give us a call at 856-217-2781. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too! We post new content regularly, so be sure to follow us so you don’t miss out on adorable pictures of our pets.