Buying a pet is something that has to be thought through. Many people rush in only to find out that they made the wrong decision later. The choice you make not only has consequences for your own life, but it is also a choice you make for another living being.

An unwanted animal is a very unhappy animal, even if its physical needs are being met. Every year, thousands of dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles, hamsters are thrown out on the street by their owners because making a wrong decision was too easy.

Being the considerate and responsible person that you are, you’ll want to make sure you get a pet only if you can give it a good life with you.

So let’s start with the advantages of owning a pet before we get to the facts that speak against owning a pet.

Pro

• A pet brings happiness and joy into your life.
• A pet gives you the opportunity to share your love and affection.
• If you live alone, a pet keeps you company.
• Animals give unconditional love: they don’t care who you are, what you are or how much you earn.
• Pets are great companions for children, helping them through times of emotional turmoil or trouble, as well as educating them about nature and non-human beings.
• Children learn to be more understanding, patient and responsible in their actions when they grow up with a pet.

Fraud

• Having a pet means being responsible for another being that depends entirely on its caretaker. This responsibility can be experienced as a burden at times.
• If you lead a busy life being responsible for a pet’s physical and emotional needs, it may be too much to muster.
• Who will take care of your pet when you go on vacation or, God forbid, if you have to go to the hospital?
• Animals have physical needs just like us. They need to eat and get rid of waste material. This means that you will have to put up with certain odors in your home, no matter how clean you keep your pet. If you’re very proud of the house or maybe even a little bit compulsive when it comes to bacteria, if you like a spotless place to live, pet hair and dander might not be for you.
• Owning a pet can be quite expensive. You need money to feed the animal and to provide medical care. Depending on the species, this can amount to a considerable sum each month.
• I know many good-hearted people who underestimated this important factor only to find themselves in serious debt after the illness of their beloved animal. Imagine the anguish of having a sleeping pet just because she couldn’t find the money to pay for the necessary surgery or treatment!

Even though there are many animals on the market that adapt to all different lifestyles, we must never forget that animals are sentient beings that are completely dependent on their people.

If in the end you decide on a pet, make sure you choose a healthy specimen and in good condition, do not get carried away by its sweet appearance and when in doubt consult your veterinarian.

Remember: a pet is for life!