Pets are a such blessing! They can make our lives better in so many different ways. For starters, dogs increase our mood significantly. There’s no way you can be sad when there’s an adorable dog goofing around and making silly faces near you.
Also, canines make it easier for us to maintain a healthy fitness routine. That’s because, at the end of the day, you are more likely to get out from the couch and take a few steps if you know you have to take your dog out for a walk, right?
Yes, there are many great benefits that come with being a dog owner. However, welcoming a pet into the family also comes with many responsibilities.
That being said, here are 4 things you should take into account before you go out and adopt a puppy:
1. Your lifestyle
Dogs are extremely loving and sociable. Unlike cats who honestly couldn’t care less, they don’t like being alone all day. So if you only come home at the end of the day to sleep, then maybe right now is not the best wat to adopt a puppy, and you should wait until your schedule will be less hectic.
2. Your family situation
If you have small children running around the house, it may be challenging to look after them and a puppy at the same time. Keep in mind that young dogs in particular need a lot of attention, and will require a considerable amount of your energy.
Always ask you family what they think about having a new pet. It’s important that everyone who lives with you is on board with bringing a puppy into the home and that they are willing to take up some of the responsibilities of raising a dog.
3. Whether you are actually ready to adopt a puppy
Don’t just get a puppy because your boyfriend/girlfriend left you, or you’re feeling lonely and sad. Many people adopt out of impulse, or because puppies are cute. And that’s how many dogs end up on the street. It’s heartbreaking.
So make sure you are actually prepared for the kind of commitment adopting a dog involves. When you bring a pet into your life, it should be forever. Regardless of anything that might come up (you have to move to another city, travel, downsize your home, and so on), the right thing to do is include your pet in all your plans.
4. Your neighborhood
This is one aspect many people overlook when deciding whether to adopt a dog or not, but it’s a very important one. You want to make sure your new canine companion will be as happy as possible, and where you live plays a pretty big role in that.
Is your neighborhood dog-friendly? Here are some things you should check:
• If there an emergency veterinary service close by
• How close if the nearest dog park
• How many other dogs are in the neighborhood
• Whether your neighbors are okay with your dog barking occasionally
Do you have a friend who is considering adopting a pet? Make sure to share this with them as well, so they can make an informed, wise decision.