So, you’ve decided to get a pet… Good call! Whether you’re adopting a senior dog or a tiny, fluffy kitten, the relationship you’re about to embark on will be life changing, to say the least.
We hope that you’ve prepared yourself for the journey ahead. Adopting a pet is a huge responsibility. You’re making a lifelong commitment to your new furry friend; and, as with any relationship, there will be the inevitable ups and downs. But, in the end, the good times and the struggles will be worth it…
Many first-time pet owners have done their homework regarding the responsibilities of pet ownership (we hope!), but there are still a few things every first-timer should know…
Puppies and Kittens Will Drive You Slightly Crazy
Yes, it’s true.
Sure, your tiny little fluff ball is adorable and endlessly entertaining, but there are a lot of challenges that go along with owning a little one. As with any baby, puppies and kittens have special needs and require extra attention.
Potty training challenges aside (as if that weren’t enough), your new puppy or kitten will test your patience. Their curiosity will take them places in your home that you never thought to puppy or kitten proof. Their curiosity and tenacity will leave you cursing under your breath as you simultaneously melt their cuteness. They will be up and ready to play just as you are going to bed… suffice it to say, your patience will be tried.
It’s OK to feel a little overwhelmed. Puppies and kittens are cute for a reason. Just hold on to your hat, turn on your phone’s camera, and be ready to laugh at the antics that await you.
Training Matters – A Lot
No matter your new pet’s age, you’ll want to spend some quality time investing in the relationship between you and your pet. At the core of that relationship is training and communication.
For younger pets (even cats, although to a lesser degree), training is essential for teaching them their place in their world, good manners and citizenship, and the skills needed navigate the human world. Did you know that dogs don’t come with an innate knowledge of how to walk on a leash? They have to be taught; and, to be honest, so do you.
Even if you’re adopting an adult or senior pet, you’ll still need to be prepared to do some training. Training can help you and your pet get on the same page when it comes to your expectations for his or her behavior and habits. If you’re adopting an older dog, consider enrolling in a training course, as it will help open up the lines of communications between you both, resulting in a much happier relationship.
Pets Have Personalities
This is one of the best parts of pet ownership, but it’s still something that will take a little getting used to. Sure, certain aspects of a pet’s demeanor can be researched ahead of time, but each pet is unique. Some animals are goofballs, some are pranksters, and some are fairly serious. But the love and compassion that they will have for you is unending.
Take the time to get to know your new pet, and be prepared for their quirks and idiosyncrasies. You’ll do well if you can accept your new friend for whoever he or she turns out to be.
Pets Have Friends, Too
Most people are surprised to learn that pets form friendships, too. These friendships may form with other humans, or with other animals. You may find that your cat adopts a stray kitten that wanders onto your property and teaches this little one “how to cat”, or that your dog forms an attachment to the cat next door.
Wherever your pet finds his or her friends, know that those attachments are just as real for your pet as they are for you. Be supportive and understanding of your pet’s friendships. These attachments are healthy for your pet, and should be encouraged.
Saying Goodbye is Really, Really Hard
That lifelong commitment we mentioned earlier? Yeah… That’s the most important, and the hardest part, of pet ownership. You need to be prepared to be in it to the end. If you think you’re just going to “rehome” your pet when he or she gets older, don’t adopt.
That being said, you need to understand that saying goodbye to a pet is harder than you can imagine. But being with your pet through his or her final years and moments is one of the most important parts of owning a pet. And, oddly enough, one of the sweetest parts, too. It’s hard to explain, but you’ll know in your heart why it’s the right thing to do after you’ve spent your pet’s lifetime by his or her side.
We hope that you and your new pet will have an amazing life together. Owning a pet is one of the best things in life, as far as we’re concerned; and we hope that you will allow us to be a part of that life when it comes to the veterinary care your pet needs to life a long and healthy life.
