Having a pet is one of the best choices you can ever make. Your pets are family members—giving love, friendship, and unending happiness. And yet, unlike a new piece of furniture or appliance, pets are living creatures who have needs, feelings, and dependancies. If you plan to introduce one into your life, you’re starting a long-term relationship that will demand time, effort, and finances.
Before you dash to the shelter or pet shop, you need to realize that being a pet owner entails a whole lot of things beyond cuddles and adorable Insta posts. From medical care and food to mental health, your pet is relying on you for all. Let’s have a look at the essentials you need to be a good pet owner.
1. Clean water and healthy food
Nutrition takes center stage in animal care. Similar to you, animals require a good, balanced diet to stay healthy. However, unlike you, they will not be opening the fridge or making healthy food choices. That’s your job to figure out and make species- and breed-specific.
- Cats and dogs typically need combinations of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. But ratios vary based on their age, weight, and illness.
- Birds and reptiles require very specialized diets that may consist of fresh vegetables and fruits, insects, or certain nutrient pellets.
Eats differently, too: dogs are twice-daily feeders, but hamsters and other small pets need to be fed infinitesimal portions on a regular basis. Provide fresh, clean water at all times—privation can rapidly produce illness.
2. Love, Attention, and Interaction
All creatures, from hyperactive dogs to relaxed turtles, require some degree of interaction and stimulation. Otherwise, they can manifest it as emotional distress and behavioral issues.
- Dogs and parrots are highly social and will get destructive or anxious if neglected.
- Cats, while sometimes aloof, do require play and affection.
- Small animals such as guinea pigs or rabbits also require interaction, handling, and enrichment activities.
If you know your pet’s routine and personality, you will be able to provide a loving home where they feel secure and loved. Choose the correct pet for your life—don’t bring home a high-maintenance pet if you’ll be away from home a great deal of time.
3. Correct Identification and Safety Precautions
The best-behaved pet can become lost. Open gates, storms, or inquisitive adventures can, in an instant, make your pet disappear from your life. Identification is necessary for that reason.
- Microchips are very small implants containing a special code legible to vets and shelters to reunite you and your pet.
- Collar identification tags with your phone number are also necessary and publicly accessible.
In theft, accidents, or lost animal incidents gone tragic, identification would greatly enhance your ability to recover your pet. Have photographs and records easily accessible, and have your microchip registered with a national database.
4. Regular Healthcare and Vet Care
Just as you have check-ups, your pet should have check-ups too. A good veterinarian is an angel watchful guardian of your furry (or feathered or scaly) friend’s well-being.
- Vaccination, deworming, flea/tick control, and check-ups every year are not to be skipped.
- Spaying/neutering not only prevents overpopulation but also has health and behavioral advantages.
Plan for the unexpected situation as well—accidents, sudden illness, or long-term illness may arise. Pet insurance or an emergency fund can assist in paying for unforeseen expenses at the vet’s.
Bonus tip: Try to find vets who provide bundled services such as grooming, day-care, and dental care, so it’s easier to get everything your pet needs under one roof.
5. Transportation and Safe Travel
It’s as important to transport your pet safely as to feed it. Whether going to the vet or just a weekend trip, investing money in the right carrier or crate can literally be a lifesaver.
- Cats and dogs must never be loose inside a vehicle. Low-speed car crashes can result in injury or liberty.
- Holders are a contained, plush space that eliminates anxiety and the danger of distraction for motorists.
- Cages or travel pouches for reptiles, birds, or pets on the road also safeguard your pet from injury while on the move.
Acclimate your pet to traveling gradually. This can reduce vacations and trips to the vet by a whole lot.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a pet into your life is a sweet thing, but one that can only be accomplished with eyes open and heart worried. Quality food, emotional care, medical care, and security aren’t luxuries—they’re the bare minimum of being a decent pet owner.
Sit down and think about whether your present way of life, pocket, and level of energy match the kind of pet you’re thinking of. If so, then you’re halfway to being the sort of pet parent that your new furry friend will need.
And believe me, when the eyes look up at you with irreproachable devotion and trust, all the work will be well and truly worth it.
