Have you ever seen an adorable kitten or playful puppy and immediately fell in love and wanted one? Animals bring us snuggles, laughter, and joy every day, but before adopting one, it’s important to know that it comes with a big responsibility. If you are wishing for a furry creature to join your family, here are some simple tips to help guide you on this exciting journey.
Choosing the Right Pet–And the Right Place
Before you go online or walk into a pet store, remember to adopt, not shop! Choosing to adopt, by visiting your local humane society or rescue center, is the kindest and best way to find your new pet. Many animals sold in pet stores come from huge facilities where they force female animals to have babies over and over in poor conditions. People who work in animal shelters don’t only care about making money; they also care about the animals and make sure they are going to good homes. If you live in the Birmingham area, check out The Greater Birmingham Humane Society!
Once you’ve found the perfect place, think about what kind of pet would fit best with your lifestyle and family. Dogs are perfect if you are active and love spending time outside, but they also will need a lot of attention and training. Cats are great if you love cuddling and live a quiet, independent life. They are lower maintenance than dogs, but still need playtime and a lot of love. Small pets, like hamsters or bunnies, are good choices if you live in a smaller space, but they are very social, and most veterinarians recommend getting more than one.
But before choosing any particular pet, ask yourself: How much free time do I have after school? Does anyone in my family have allergies? Is my family ready to all help out?
Becoming a Pet Parent
Once you’ve brought your pet home, your journey of being a pet owner is only just beginning. Remember that animals can’t speak our language, so it is up to you to make sure they are happy and healthy.
Just like you need food and water to stay healthy and strong, so does your pet! Make sure clean water is available to them at all times and learn what foods aren’t good for them. Foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions can make your pet very sick, so it’s always best to check with a parent before giving your pet a treat. Veterinarians recommend feeding your pets with brands like Purina and Blue Buffalo, for a full nutritional diet.
Just like food is important to us, so is getting exercise! Daily walks and outside playtime is very important for dogs to stay healthy and active. For cats or smaller pets, purchasing toys like feather wands or chew toys keeps them from feeling bored and keeps them happy and playful.
Showing Love and Patience
When a pet moves into a new home, they might feel scared or unsure at first. By giving them space to explore at their own pace, they will familiarize themselves with your house and your family faster. Speak to them in a gentle voice and give them pets and treats as they get more comfortable. At first, your new kitty or puppy might be scared and hide, and not want affection, and that’s okay! Just give it time, have patience, and they will soon warm up to you and become your new best friend!
