The Do's and Don'ts of Deciding to Get a Pet

The decision to get a pet is usually a positive one. People get them for companionship and to help their children learn responsibility. Having a pet can also mean having an instant and always loyal best friend.

It sounds easy enough to just run out and get one, but first, you should know if everyone in your house will be willing to have one. Also, is there any reason you shouldn't get a pet? Keep this list of Dos and Don'ts in mind:

DO:

Discuss the idea with your whole family. Not everyone is an animal lover and you shouldn't get a pet just because one or two people want one.

Immediately discuss the responsibilities of having a pet. Figure out who will be responsible for feeding it, who will clean up after it (cleaning the litter box or any accidents in the house), and who will be responsible for taking it outside to go to the bathroom, if necessary.

Figure out if you can afford a pet. Animals are expensive and you will definitely need to budget enough for veterinary care, food, and dishes. You may also choose to purchase toys and a bed. Other necessities, depending on what kind of pet you're getting, include a crate/cage, a litter box, an aquarium, or a fish bowl. Can you pay for those expenses?

Agree on what kind of pet you want. Different animals will be easier or more challenging to take care of. If it is your first pet, you may want to start with a dog that has already been trained, or consider a guinea pig or goldfish.

Research as much as you can about the animal you want. What are their habits? What is their personality like? What kind of care do they need? These are important questions to answer.

DON'T:

Get a pet you won't have time to take care of. While it is inevitable that people in your house need to work or have other commitments, you cannot constantly leave an animal home alone. Make sure someone will always be around to give it proper care.

Get an animal that will trigger allergies, unless anyone who may be allergic is up to date on allergy shots or takes medication for them.

Run out and get a pet in order to replace another one who passed away. It takes time for people to heal when they lose an animal; just as it would when a person dies. Wait an appropriate amount of time and then bring up the idea of having another pet in your home.

Choose a pet that won't get along with any other animals you may have. If you have other pets, see how a potential furry family member would get along you're your current pets.

Get rid of pets you had first when there is conflict with the new animal.

Give up on an animal that needs training. You can look into animal training programs for assistance. The trainer will give you tips on how to care for your pet and teach him or her different commands as well.

Neglect to feed your animal, give it water, or take it outside frequently.

Forget to groom it regularly. Animals need their hair brushed, teeth brushed, and nails trimmed. Make sure to choose a good pet groomer or figure out a way to handle this yourself.

Although a pet can be enjoyed by all, there are times when you should and shouldn't be getting one. Hopefully, if you are a potential pet owner reading this, you will know if an animal is right for you.