It’s a new year and with the new year, come resolutions, goals and lifestyle changes. For many, the addition of a pet in the new year is something that might be on the drawing board. While we here at Dog Guide San Antonio will seldom discourage you from adopting a pet into your loving home, the fact of the matter is that it’s not always the right time to bring a pet into your home. People often misjudge what it takes to be a responsible pet owner, and this is how many pets end up in shelters. The good news is that if you’re reading this, you’re already a responsible future pet owner just for thinking about this in a logical manner! Kudos to you! Here are some things to consider and some examples of how you might know if you’re just not quite ready for a new pet.
You’re a Nomad
If you’re in a stage of your life where you are moving frequently, or are planning to move a lot, carefully consider how that might impact a pet. Moving can be stressful for pets and, if you might be renting a home or apartment, it’s often difficult to find housing that will accept certain types of pets.
You Have a New Job
A new job often means new responsibilities and long work hours. Think long and hard about what the next year might look like in terms of your job before you bring a pet into your home. You’ll want to spend as much time as you can with your new pet and a new job might require more of you than you’ve anticipated.
You’re Broke
While pets can add immeasurable joy to your life, they can also wrack up a big vet bill in no time. If money is already tight, consider waiting until you have more expendable income before bringing a pet into your life. Or, take a break from your daily coffee run and stash that money into a savings account for your new pet expenses.
You’re Foot-Loose and Fancy-Free
Are you always up for an adventure and love to travel or go out on a moment’s notice? Well, carefully consider how your active lifestyle might impact a pet. While you can take a dog many places to have an adventure with you, traveling with pets can be challenging and finding someone to care for them well in your absence can be tough, too. Perhaps sow your wild oats now, and then, when life calms down a bit, revisit getting a pet.
You’re Not a Morning Person
Like it or not, most pets are early birds and require attention and care first thing in the morning. So, if you love to sleep the day away, consider a pet who is nocturnal or adjust your schedule to accommodate a pet who needs walks or feeding early in the morning.
While some might say that it’s never the perfect time to get a pet, there are definitely times that are better than others. If you have any concerns that the time isn’t right for you to get a pet, hold off. You can also research less traditional pets who require a bit less from you. In the end, it’s always kinder to wait on bringing a pet home until you are fully ready to give your new four-legged bestie your best self!
Check out These Pro Tips on Training Your Puppy
If you decided to take the plunge and bring home a new puppy after all professional dog trainer Stephanie Garza has some great tips to help you start training at home.
Want to know more about adding a pet to your home? Check out these posts:
Two No-Fail Steps to Puppy-Proofing Your Home
