As we arrive to the year 2021, we’re older, wiser and much more ready for anything that life may present to us. After all, this last year was unprecedented beyond words. But, in a way, it showed us where our priorities truly lie. A fresh start might mean a renewed commitment to yourself, a budding business idea or even a new family member. If you’ve been wanting a furry addition to your home, this guide on responsible pet parenthood is for you!
Living Spaces:
One of the first things to consider is your living space and what that might mean for your new buddy. The easiest way to think about it is in terms of size and accessibility; the bigger the pet, the bigger space they will need to truly thrive. For example, you wouldn’t bring home a Husky to your studio apartment. Having an outdoor space might eliminate some extra neighborhood walks for bathroom time and marking their territory as well as channeling their high energy. Smaller dogs do not generally need much space, but it all depends on their personality.
Are You a Match?
When picking a breed, you always come first. Your personality, lifestyle, and tendencies are the biggest determining factors for who will come home with you. If you have a busy schedule, getting a high-maintenance pet is setting both of you up for failure. A new pet is a huge commitment and although they are not human, it is truly a relationship deserving of the utmost care. Getting a pet is signing up to be their caretaker for the entirety of their lifespan; they might be just a companion to you, but to them, you are their world.
The Big Bucks:
Taking care of a pet is a big financial responsibility, costing anywhere from $1,500 - $4,500 each year. If you are renting your space, it will also cost more in addition to a pet deposit (incidentals). Before jumping into the commitment, ensure that you can consistently provide adequate food, water, health care, training, grooming, toys and all the unplanned curve balls life inevitably throws our way. Since having a pet is a lifetime commitment, as they age, they may require special attention when it comes to their health. This could mean a more fickle diet, doctor’s appointments, medicine and surgeries. Remember, not all breeds are high maintenance, but it is something to consider.
School is Now in Session:
With any new baby, there is a level of discipline and training that is necessary to set a solid foundation, which is entirely dependent on you. This is the most crucial period of pet parenthood because it will color the rest of your time together. Unless you want the whole house ripped apart and treated like a free-for-all bathroom, you must stand your ground. It is best to bring in the big guns like a professional trainer to set the tone because you will have homework for sure! Puppies and kittens require almost constant monitoring and especially with a puppy, you’re looking at about six months of devoted care. As adorable as they may be, the most important thing to remember is that you are the boss and it is your house and your rules.
Social Creatures:
Just like humans, pets are social creatures and although cats are a little different than dogs, they too, crave interaction. It’s important to expose them to the outside world in a balanced way to ensure they will thrive and not just survive. Taking them on walks, playing with them and socializing them with other animals (within reason) is a great recipe for a happy and healthy life.
Keep Those Paws Clean:
Pets can be smelly and that is not just a myth. Integrating a hygiene routine is essential for their well being (and yours). Although there are basic things you can upkeep at home, it is important to get them groomed regularly. With everything moving so swiftly in a virtual direction, mobile grooming is the new wave and Petlox is the perfect solution for busy schedules. Think of Petlox as a concierge service with a hefty rolodex of the best groomers for pets. With a super user-friendly interface and mobile app you can keep everything organized with just a few clicks. It makes appointments, bookings and payments that much smoother. Once you register your fur baby, you’re officially set and the profile will stay updated with any changes.
With all that being said, bringing a pet into your life can be one of the best experiences and hopefully this guide has given you some perspective into the process!