Are you capable of keeping an animal?

-Photo courtesy of Ami's Ambles

Remember, keeping an animal does not just mean keeping him or her alive. You have the responsibility to commit your time and efforts towards the animal and give them the best quality of life you can give. Consider these points before adopting, purchasing, or accepting an animal:

-Are you in the mindset to seriously take in an animal? Keeping a pet is a huge commitment. Animals can live for years, if not decades. Do not only consider your feelings now, but think of what they could be in the future.

Ask yourself these questions:

Am I getting a pet on a whim or because I think the animal is “cute” or “cool”?
Am I getting a pet because I saw a friend, stranger, or celebrity with one?
Am I considering all of the negatives of pet ownership: like vet bills, worry, messes, travel hassles, etc?
Am I getting a pet with the intention of keeping him or her until the rest of his/her days?

-Do you have the funds to keep a pet? Owning an animal does not come cheap. Along with veterinary bills, you must consider food, bedding, training devices, toys, travel accessories, housing expenses, pet sitting services, grooming accessories, and more. If you do not have the sufficient funds to care for an animal, remember that the animal must suffer along with you.

Ask yourself these questions:

Am I currently in debt?
Do I have sufficient funds to take care of myself (and my family)?
If my pet were ever to get into an accident and need extensive treatment, would I be in the position to pay the bills?

-Does your current lifestyle suit an animal? Animals have specific needs to stay healthy and happy. A pet should not have to bend to suit your conveniences, like a car or a fitness program. You must consider the animal you want to obtain, and imagine them in your home, living with you, in your life.

Ask yourself these questions:

How much time can I spend with my pet a day?
Does my pet need a lot of attention (like a dog) or does my pet dislike human handing (like most reptiles).
How much time do I spend away from my home?
Does my pet need someone to look after him/her while I’m away?
Is my pet safe in my home while I am gone?
Do I travel a lot?
Am I able to fill in the specific needs of a pet (grooming, exercise, etc)?
Is my pet prone to destructive behavior if not cared for properly?
Is my pet going to be safe and happy around my other pets/family?

-Do you have arrangements should your pet outlive you? Although this is morbid to think about, think of your pets as young children. If you should pass, you need to make sure they can be put into good hands.

Ask yourself these questions:

Do I have a family member or friend who can care for my pet or else make arrangements for someone else to?
Who is going to take care of my pet in the flurry of funeral/inheritance arrangements?
Will I have to put my pet into a pound or animal shelter?
Have I left instructions on what my wishes are for my pet’s insurance, possessions, care, medical care and possible arrangements after he/she dies?

Take your time when deciding to keep an animal or not, don't let it be on a whim. Many animals today are abandoned or taken to shelters because their owners have realized that they cannot keep them. Make sure you can make a commitment for your pet.