I work with a cat charity, and while it’s enormously rewarding work, I’m also very saddened by the number of pets who are abandoned. Sometimes it’s circumstances, but there are a lot of factors to consider when thinking about getting a pet. Here are some questions to ask yourself.
If you’d like a dog, do you have a garden? Can you walk it twice a day? Will it be left alone while you’re at work?
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The purchase price or adoption fee is only the start of it. Can you afford vet’s bills, vaccinations, food (especially if they need a special diet), medication if the animal develops a long-term health problem?
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Cats are probably more suitable for a flat, or a small caged animal. If you rent, does your lease allow pets?
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Can you commit to looking after the animal for the rest of its life?
If you have children, consider what would be the most suitable pet for them. They may pester you for a puppy or rabbit, but will they look after it? Or will you end up doing all the work?
Who will look after the animal while you are away? Can you afford kennel costs, or is there a willing friend or neighbor?
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Should you get a kitten/puppy, or would an older animal fit better into your life?
If you are interested in exotic pets, do you have the specialist knowledge to care for it, and can you provide the right environment?
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Are you prepared to deal with the practicalities and disruption a pet may bring, such as hairs everywhere, scratching furniture,
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If you want a pedigree, can you cope with the particular characteristics of the breed? Or would an ‘ordinary’ rescue animal suit you better?
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These are all important points, but there are lots more things to consider. What else do you need to bear in mind when choosing a pet?
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