Adopting a dog should be a major life change, and you shouldn’t do this on a whim. Explore a few important things to consider before adopting a pup.
Even if you believe you can give a shelter pup a brand new life, it doesn’t always mean you should. While that may sound like a negative claim, a better home than the shelter doesn’t mean it’s the best possible home for a specific animal. With that said, you should ponder the idea of taking in a dog long before you do so, as making big decisions on a whim is never the best solution. Dive into a few important things to consider before adopting a dog to ensure you make a positive decision for everyone involved.
Can I Afford This?
Many people underestimate the expense of being a dog owner, and you should know it’s not always cheap. While the adoption fee may be affordable, the cost doesn’t end there; in fact, you can expect to buy food, care items, toys, and other dog necessities for the rest of their life. Aside from basic needs, you should also consider the annual and emergency vet expenses, as they can add up quickly. If you’re unsure if you can commit to these expenses, you should think twice about adopting a furry friend.
Do I Have Time for Exercise?
Most dog breeds require exercise, especially larger dogs. Although playing inside for a bit will normally suffice for a small breed, you’ll have to take your labrador or golden retriever for walks or let them run a few times each day. Without proper exercise, your pup may become anxious, antsy, overweight, or develop undesirable behavioral issues. With that in mind, you must consider whether or not you have time to devote to daily exercise for your pup.
Will They Ride in the Car Often?
You may be on the move frequently if you live a rather busy life. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you should determine whether or not you can take them with you. There’s nothing wrong with leaving your pup at home for a few hours, but you should avoid leaving them day in and day out. If you take them along on adventures, they’ll ride in your car often; unfortunately, some dogs don’t do well with this.
Even though knowing how to avoid common dog car travel issues is a great start, you may need various car aids to make the trip more pleasant. Ask yourself whether you’re okay with a furry pup in your vehicle before making your final decision.
Is Anyone Willing To Help?
Although owning a dog is your own decision, you must also consider the times when you leave home for longer than a few hours. Whether for a vacation, a short work trip, an out-of-town concert or wedding, or another occasion, you can’t forget about your dog. You can board them while you’re away, but it will cost you extra and may not be the best option for your furry friend. With that said, you should ask yourself whether or not you have friends, neighbors, or family members who would be willing to care for them in your absence. Hopefully, these important things to consider before adopting a dog will help you make the best decision regarding your future. Adoption is always a great thing to consider, but you must also decide whether or not you have what it takes to be the best dog parent.