5 Questions to Help Decide if You're Ready for a Pet

Did you know that owning a pet can add years to your life? Studies show that pet owners are less likely to have heart disease and are more likely to have low blood pressure1. What it all comes down to is endorphins. If your heart is happy, your life is happy.

So, how do you decide if you’re ready for a pet?

Can you afford it?

Plain and simple, can you afford it? If you’re having a hard time feeding yourself, chances are adding another mouth to feed is a bad idea. Animals are expensive.

Not just because their food can cost as much if not more than your food, but because much like us – accidents happen. They could get hurt and then you’ll have to cover medical costs. Some dogs get arthritis, some have diabetes, and some have allergies. Medicine adds up and although pet insurance exists, most medications aren’t covered.

If you’re in the market it for a “fur child” or an animal of any kind – do the math first.

Are you in the right “place” for it?

If you’ve just had a child, chances are the last thing you’ll want is something else to take care of and feed. No matter how cute they are. So, make sure that you’re in the right mindset and the right place to have one.

If you live in an apartment, check your contract for pet rules and regulations. And, most importantly, be fair to the animal. If you’re in a 600 square foot apartment and are only home seven hours a day, getting a Great Dane isn’t the smartest option.

Similarly, if you own your home, make sure you study up on your city laws. Believe it or not, some cities ban breeds and types of animals. For instance, New York City doesn’t allow ferrets as pets2. Or, maybe you’d like a chicken coup – you’ll need to check if your property is zoned for it.

Can you handle the commitment?

Regardless of your situation. Whether you’re wanting something self-sufficient or you can handle something that needs a little more care – you need to know if you are ready to make a commitment.

Any animal, even a fish, requires a level of commitment. You need to make sure their fed, that the tank is clean and that, if they require it, they are given any nutrients that they may need.

Where you live matters, but whether or not you’re ready for the responsibility is another thing.

Have you researched what you want?

Be prepared! Animals take a lot of work and no matter the kind – whether it’s a mouse, bird, snake, or dog – you’ll want to be prepared.

All animals have different needs. From the food that they can eat to the temperatures that they need to survive to how much you need to bathe them. Do your research otherwise you may end up having your pet for a short period of time.

Essentially what this means is, take your time. Don’t rush into a decision. Their life is in your hands.

Do you know what to do after you’ve gotten your pet?

Most people think that getting the pet is the hardest thing. Making sure your pet is taken care of is the most important thing.

If they are reacting badly to the food, make sure you switch it. Don’t let them live in agony. Read up on what their reaction are. If a bearded dragon is pale and lethargic – it may be sick. In that case you’ll want to take it to a vet.

It may be in your best interest to look into pet insurance. If you know your pet is prone to congenital diseases and issues, getting pet insurance can help alleviate some of the medical costs. And, quite a few employers are willing to contribute to pet insurance plans. If nothing else, ask your vet. They may be able to recommend someone.

If you can answer all of those questions firmly and have no doubt that you’re ready – then it’s time to take the plunge. If you have questions, if you need advice – Google is always there – but so are a multitude of great veterinarians offices. And if you need help searching for a pet check out petfinder.com. It partners with hundreds of shelter across the nation to help you find the pet that’s perfect for you.

1According to WebMD. 2According to Animals.Mom.Me.