7 Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet
Are you considering expanding your family with a furry friend? Then there are a lot of things to think about.
I’d like to start by saying that I’d always advise adopting a pet instead of buying one.
Not only are there a lot of people out there selling animals from illegal breeders that are very often sick, but unfortunately we also live in a country where there are a lot of animals that are being abandoned on the streets by their owners and are trying to survive.
Luckily there are organisations like Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre that rescue these animals and help them to find a forever home.
1) A pet is a lifetime commitment
Coming to my first thing to think of when getting a pet: a pet is a lifetime commitment. I’m sure you’ll be able to give your new family member unconditional love. But there are other things to think of as well like being able to spend time with your pet and being able to take your pet with you when you’re relocating out of The UAE.
Pets are not always easy to have. But it’s our responsibility to also take care of them even if we don’t feel so good ourselves. I’m not always very excited myself to walk my dog when it’s very hot outside or after a long day of work, but it’s something I have to do because I want the best for my dog.
My cat sometimes wakes me up in the middle of the night with her zoomies which can drive me insane, but I wouldn’t want it any other way and I’m lucky to have them in my life.
Not yet sure if you can commit? No worries, maybe try fostering first before adopting.
2) What kind of pet fits your family and lifestyle?
Do you work a lot and long hours? Then a dog might not be the best option for you. There are so many questions to ask yourself. Do you want a kitten/puppy or an older cat or dog?
Young animals need to be trained more than mature animals and that’s very time-consuming. Even think about the sleepless nights you might have to endure. Also what kind of house do you live in? Big or small, do you have a garden? Do you want a calm or active pet?
I know these are a lot of questions but don’t worry. Any good rescue organisation like RAKAWC can help you answer all of these questions and find the best match for you that fits your lifestyle.
3) Have patience
Although you might be very excited to have a new family member in the house, your pet needs time to adjust to the new situation. Especially when there are kids involved as well.
This takes time and can take weeks even a few months. Teach your kids to read the signs your pet is showing and give your pet space to explore and come to you.
Once you introduce them properly to a new home, you and your pet will benefit from it for the rest of his or her life.
4) Your house will never be the same!
Hairs everywhere! And the more pets, the more hair. I could have started a carpet company by now, I’m sure. Not only that, my cat loves to scratch things.
Bye-bye beautiful chairs, it was nice having you.
Of course, you can train your pets not to destroy things in the house but it takes time, consistency and patience. There are pet trainers that can help you and like any other kind of pet business, Treats Card can fix you up with some discounts. But be prepared!
It would be good to make your house as pet-proof as you can. Remove maybe some items that can break easily or can be easily damaged in the beginning and introduce them to your pet when he/she is more adjusted.
If you’re scared of cat scratches then get plastic covers to protect your furniture and make sure your pet can not escape from your garden or balcony easily.
5) There’s so much responsibility
When you have a pet, it’s like having a child. They rely on you completely.
When you have a cat, you also have to keep in mind that the litter box needs to be cleaned often. When you’re a dog owner you’ll find a whole new relationship with plastic bags because we need to pick up after our dogs when we go out for our walks every day.
6) Pets are expensive
Yes, they’re cute and make you happy, but pets are also expensive. Just like us, they need to eat every day, require some basic necessities like toys or a place to sleep, a grooming service from time to time, maybe daycare when you’re working or boarding/pet sitting when you want to go on vacation.
But they can also get sick. And veterinary services don’t come cheap. Luckily Treats Card can help you with this. They offer up to 50% discount on your pet bills for food & supplies, groomers, vets, pet insurances and so on. But you need to do the calculations properly to see if you’re able to afford a pet, especially in case something happens.
Want to know more about how you can save on your pet bills? Click HERE to find out more.
7) You are their life
Make sure to spend it with them as much as you can. Do you have a dog and want to go out for dinner with friends? Consider taking your dog with you!
There are many dog-friendly places in The UAE and you can find them all on my website Doggie Adventures in Dubai.