Adopting a pet: are you ready?


As COVID-19 spread last year, many communities around the country saw a surge in pet adoptions and temporary fosters. It’s not hard to see why: as the pandemic kept us locked in our homes, many felt more isolated and lonely and had a lot more time to devote to a furry friend.

 

Local rescue organizations and breeders face unprecedented interest, with many setting up long waiting lists for pet lovers but they also worry that, once COVID-19 ends — or the novelty of owning a pet does — many pandemic pets will be abandoned by their new owners.

 

That’s why, if you’re considering adopting a dog, cat or other animal, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility and the changes having a pet will create.

 

Here are few tips to make sure you’re ready:

 

1.     Are you really ready? Pets depend on humans for all their needs — are you prepared to care for them long term?

2.     What pet or breed do you want? Whether you’re a dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig or even rat person — or whether you have a preference for a particular breed of animal — each type has different needs from grooming and feeding to exercising, playing and socializing. Before adopting a pet, research the needs of different animals and breeds to make sure you’re up for the demands of being an owner.

3.     What pet is best for where you live? A Great Dane is probably not the best breed for a bachelor apartment and a garden that’s not fenced in might not be suitable for a dog or rabbit you plan on letting roam in and out of your house. Think about what kind and size pet makes the most sense.

4.     Is it allowed? Some apartment and condo buildings prohibit pets or have restrictions on the kinds of pets you can keep at home. Check with your landlord or building management before making a final decision.

5.            Can you afford it? Becoming a pet papa or mama can be pricey — from purchasing the animal to supplies like food and toys to veterinary exams and health insurance. Add up the monthly and annual costs to see whether owning a pet is an expense you’re ready to commit to.

 

No matter what kind of pet you settle on, it’s important to do your research. Here and here are good places to start.

 

Are you considering adopting a pet? Have you already done so? Please share your questions and experiences with the Shop Talk blog community members—we always love hearing from you.

 

Did you know: Owning a pet is a big responsibility

 

Some 2.4 million healthy dogs and cats are euthanized in shelters each year because there’s no one to adopt them. If you’re thinking of adopting an animal, visit your local shelter first (Source)

75 thoughts on “Adopting a pet: are you ready?

  1. Life would be so boring and so sad without my dogs. They get us out walking daily. The love hey give is so special and so appreciated. It is never a chore or bother to care for our dogs as they are truly member of our family

  2. Not interested in a pet of any kind. At my age aI enjoy my neighbors dog and we walk together several times a week. Lived on a farm when young and had a lot of pets

  3. About 6 weeks ago I adopted a chihuahua mix from a local rescue. Best thing I’ve done recently! Buddie is fiercely loyal to me and my adult son when he comes to see me. Buddie is about 2 or 3 we think, full of love and antics. Not forgetting alarm system that doesn’t use batteries.

  4. We have 2 loving dogs and have had dogs for the last 27 years. Prior to that we had both a dog and cat, so we know that a pet is an important family member.

  5. I rescued two dogs a year before the pandemic. I used to have Daschunds, but decided to get rescue dogs. I also have a cat in the house. I don’t know what I would do without my babies…especially during this time.

  6. All “the kids” are gone now and the house is VERY quiet. Sadly, pets just don’t live long enough and, when each one leaves, they take a piece of your heart with them. We have chosen NOT to undergo that pain again.

  7. I already have six cats, all of whom were rescued by either a friend or myself. Yes, owing pets is a big responsibility but we take it very seriously.

  8. Looking to adopt or foster a senior small dog to be a companion for my 99 year old dad. My daughter had a Pomeranian since it was 7 weeks and my dad babysat it everyday while she went to work, our Lola crossed the rainbow bridge a year ago. My dad is a little sad and keeps expressing he’d like to get dog. We were trying to get him one for his birthday that just passed in January but had no luck. I would be responsible for the dogs healthcare and after my dad passes. Please let me know if you have any dogs fitting my needs. I my self have a ginger cat who is 1 1/2 years old also a rescue after my own first cat Cookie went over the rainbow bridge 5 years ago at age 11.
    Hope to hear from you soon.

    Maria

  9. Have1 already , lost my first cat years ago then adopted local cat who was then our neighbor to my cat that died, his name Shadow
    Outdoors cat, No litter box, just dry food & water.
    Sleeps inside during night PM hours
    Outside day hours mostly
    Prior cat Indoors,litter box, canned food

  10. We adopted Houdini back in 2009. It was the best decision we ever made. Our previous cat, Felix, had passed away from cancer of the jaw. We waited almost two years before deciding to bring
    another kitty into our lives. Because Houdini is a black cat and because it was near October 31 we had to wait until December to bring him home. He was 1 1/2 at the time and he’s now almost 13 in a forever home that loves him and treats him like one of the family. Thankfully, the shelter he came from is a no kill , they keep the cats until they’re adopted.

  11. I am 56 years old…. and I know about pets… I actually have 4 dogs I am not sure why you think I am adopting a pet. I don’t need your input in my personal life… Please unsubscribe me from any further correspondence.

  12. I love animals and I’ve had a few growing up but now that my kids are out the house I need a furry friend to spoil and take care of. Or should I say to take care of me.

  13. We only have fish and they are relaxing. I have rescued several fish. WalMart was discontinuing their fish department and were giving them away – didn’t want to see them flushed. People who move offer their fish as well and are grateful when you take multiples so they aren’t split up. Easy to leave on vacation because we have it all automated for feeding and lights.

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