Pets are a great addition to your family that will bring joy and happiness for years to come. Still, there is a lot of work that goes into caring for your new dog or hamster. Whether you are an experienced pet owner or a beginner, it doesn’t hurt to do your research to ensure you are giving your animal everything it needs. Here are a few tips that can help you master pet ownership.
Get the Kids Involved
There is nothing that teaches your children responsibility like their involvement in caring for their pet. Depending on the animal, you can encourage your kids to help clean cages, refill water and food bowls and take the pet on walks, if applicable. It can be challenging to get your children in on helping around the house, but getting a pet can be a profound (and fun) teaching moment for you. Your kids may not even realize how much they are learning because they are so excited about their pet, and this will help them develop the confidence and independence they need to be successful later in life. Does this sound like a parenting win to you?
Hire a Vet You Can Trust
Before considering taking in an animal (especially if it is a high maintenance pet like a cat, dog or horse), you must do your research on vets in your area. Having a veterinarian that you can rely on is a vital factor in your ability to care for your family pet. It doesn’t hurt to build a relationship with your pet’s doctor, so you are more comfortable asking for advice. Your vet is also more likely to find ways to save you money by recommending prebiothrive discounts and other over-the-counter remedies because they appreciate your business and attentiveness. Not to mention, it makes vet visits easier on you if your pet is familiar with the staff.
Consider Your Schedule
Before you decide on adding a pet to your family, you have to be sure you have the time to watch after it. Still, just because you have a busy work schedule doesn’t mean you can’t be a fantastic pet owner. If you are worried about making the time to care for your pet, you can opt for a pet that is easier to maintain, or sites like Rover offer pet sitting and boarding services for families who need extra assistance with pet care, which could help you immensely if you ever got into a jam. The individuals you can choose from are all background checked, and there is an option to read reviews from happy clients to give you peace of mind. It is always best to plan ahead and take the time to make sure you have all your bases covered. There is no shame in concluding that now is not the right time to add more to your plate. In fact, that is the most responsible decision you can make.
Practice Patience
Many pet owners don’t realize how long it takes for an animal to get acclimated to their new surroundings. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to months for your pet to feel comfortable in your home. That said, it is essential to be patient and take any accidents or behavior issues with a grain of salt. Your new pet is much more likely to give you a hard time when you first bring them home compared to when you start to build trust. All of these things progress over time, so be sure you are willing to take on a long-term commitment prior to adopting an animal.
While owning a pet can be nerve-wracking, especially if you are new to the job, there are also so many positive aspects of the adventure. It is amazing how having an animal can make you feel less lonely, and you may be surprised how quickly you will bond with your furry (or scaly) friend.
