Choosing a new pet

 

 

Every year The Blue Cross adoption centres take in thousands of pets for rehoming. In many cases this sad event could have been avoided if the owner had taken time to find out more about the pet before deciding to take it home.

So what do you need to think about?

First of all, you will need to take time to find out how to care for this pet.

 

• What kind of home he will need?
• What will he need to eat?
• What bedding will he need?
• How should you handle him?
• What exercise he will need?
• How do you keep him healthy?

You can find out about looking after pets in our pet care leaflets on our website.

View leaflets on how to care for your pet.

 

Have you or your family, ever owned this kind of animal before?
If not you need to talk to someone who has, such as The Blue Cross, your vet or a good breeder. You need to ask them about the good points and the bad points of owning this pet.

 

Where will you get the pet?
Remember that many charities, including The Blue Cross, need homes for small pets as well as cats and dogs.

 

Will he fit in to your life easily?
Be honest, you are not going to change the way you live very much, so the animal will need to fit in with you. If you are looking for a new dog you will need to find out if the breed of dog you like is really suitable for your family. It is no good getting a high-energy dog that needs lots of exercise if you are too busy to walk it.

 

Do you have enough room for your new pet?
Many small pets, like rabbits and rats, need to be kept in pairs for company and so will need a large home. Dogs need room to run around and play. Cats will also need space and a home away from busy roads.

 

 

Is everybody in your home happy with this kind of pet?
Has anyone got an allergy or a fear of these animals? People who suffer from asthma can have a problem with pet hair in the home.

How much time will be needed to care for the animal? 
It may mean that you will have to get up earlier to care for it, even on dark winter mornings. You may need to go outside to look after it, even when it is cold and wet. Perhaps you would prefer a different pet?

 

Do your sums: 
How much it will cost you to set up a home and buy your new pet?
How much will your pet cost each month to feed and house?
Add to that any grooming costs, training classes, holiday fees, vaccination costs and pet insurance.

 

Can your family afford these extra costs?  
Once you have found out all about the animal, talk it through with your family. Remember that pets can live a long time and you will be looking after it for many years to come. Then give yourself at least two months before getting the pet in case you have second thoughts.

If you and your family are still certain that you can care for this pet for all of its life then go ahead and look after it well. You will get lots of joy in return.