Are you going through some serious pet withdrawal? Often, as young adults, we either don’t have the money or the permission to take our favorite creatures with us when we move. But, now that you are in an apartment complex or house that allows you to have pets, how can you tell if your ready for the emotional and financial responsibility it takes to have a pet? These seven questions will help you have your answer!
Did You Grow Up With Pets?
Now, this is not to say that if you weren’t able to have pets growing up that you’ll be a horrible pet parent, I just mean if you had a pet growing up, you most likely know the work that goes into to having a dog or cat. You might have even assisted your parents in taking care of your family pet. Either way, you won’t be overwhelmed by all that it takes to care for a pet properly.
Do You Have Money?
Obviously, this is a no-brainer, but not just that you have enough money to go to a farm to adopt the cat or get a dog from a dog breeder, but that you have money to take care of them indefinitely. That means you have money for food, litter, bags to pick up their poop, a leash, collars, electric fence or system, shots and vaccines from the vet, etc., etc. Because buying a pet is not just a one-time transaction, it continues to be expensive ever year they’re alive.
Are You In A Good Place With Your Job?
That means that you like your job and are planning to stay there for awhile. You are making a substantial income that you can count on every two weeks. If you’re just working at the Gap, you might not be ready to get a pet, but if you have been at your same corporate job for a year, it might be the right time.
Do You Even Want A Pet?
You haven’t just thought about it on a whim or thought you need to get a dog because you like petting them in the park, you are all in for this pet. You have talked it over with family, friends, and co-workers, and people support you. You have a dog, cat, bunny, fish shaped hole in your heart that just can’t be filled by anything else.
Do You Have Space?
If you are living in a dinky apartment where you smack your head on the ceiling each morning, how are you going to fit a fat cat or spunky dog? Make sure that the area you are living has room to put a litter box, food dish, dog bed, toys, and more. Also, you might want to make sure your house is easy to navigate. My dog is currently blind in both her eyes, if my house was not easy to navigate, she could get hurt pretty easily. The same can be true for puppies just starting to get their bearings. Whatever you decide, make sure that you have the important things away from your future pet’s reach and eager teeth.
Are You In The Middle Of A Life Change?
That means you won’t be looking to go back to school, get pregnant, or get married for awhile. You don’t want to be getting yourself and your pet adjusted during the same season. If you are in one of these life stages, it might be wise to wait to get a pet when things have slowed down a little.
Do You Have Time?
I know that life can get crazy, but, you have to think about if you have the time to invest and give a pet the love and attention it will need. If you are someone who is gone from 7 am to 6 pm every night, a puppy might not be the best idea, but a cat might work. Think realistically about what your days and weekends look like, and if they could have the time to nurture your furry friend.
I hope that those tips helped you to realize if you are ready to welcome a new pet or not. Remember, just because you might not be ready now, doesn’t mean that you’ll never be able to get a pet. Let us know what type of pet you are planning to get in the comments below!