What to Know Before You Buy a Pet

My husband and I recently found a kitten on our doorstep.  We first inquired around the neighborhood and then took him to the Humane Society.  When we dropped him off, we asked that they let us adopt him if no one came forward to claim him.  We are now the proud parents of Schrödinger cat!

I grew up surrounded by pets: dogs, cats, hamsters.  Schrödinger is my husband’s very first pet.  That said, there are some things about the adjustment period with our kitten that are much easier for me than for him.  For example, I’m not surprised when a little black ball of fluff decides that on top of my keyboard is the best place in the entire world to play.  What has been interesting to me has been going over with my husband some of the things that you need to be aware of as a pet owner.  You have a responsibility not only to your pet but also to people your pet will come in contact with.  Dogs and cats bring a lot of joy into our lives.  Unfortunately, that bundle of joy comes equipped with teeth and claws and instincts that are geared toward survival. 

While you may accept behavior in a four pound kitten that you would instantly put a stop to in a forty pound dog, you should be aware that bad behavior, especially biting, is more than just a nuisance.  Pet owners are responsible when their pet bites someone else.  Although your dog might not be vicious and is unlikely to turn up on the 6 o'clock news, even small nips can be dangerous and get you into legal trouble.  If your dog injures someone, you could end up in court and may even have to pay medical bills.

Homeowner's and renter's insurance often covers you if your dog bites someone.  However, be very careful to check your policy.  Some policies specifically exclude certain breeds of dogs which are considered higher risk.  There are several things you can do to help minimize risk.

Choose a pet that is friendly and even-tempered.  Some breeds are more easy-going than others.  Getting a pet from a breeder instead of a store can also give you the opportunity to meet one or both of your animal's parents and see their personalities and temperaments.

Make sure your pet is well-behaved.  Obedience classes can help with this.  Correct bad behavior immediately without delay every single time.  The rules should be easy to understand and consistent.  If you don't want your dog on the couch, then remove him every time he jumps up regardless of what else you are doing at the time.  The more consistent you are the happier and more obedient your pet will be. 

Make sure your pet has regular vet check-ups.  It is important to keep up on their vaccinations and just as important to be proactive when it comes to your pet's health.  Not only can you help your pet live a long life this way, but you can also prevent problem behavior that occurs when an animal is sick or injured.

Take steps to secure your animals when people they don't know or don't like are at your house.  This goes double for when young children are around.  Children and animals, although cute together, can be a recipe for disaster.  Children are exploring their world and that can include pulling ears and tails, hitting, or squeezing too hard.  Your dog or cat will either fight back or run away.  If they choose to run and the child is still holding them, a bite or a scratch will help secure the pet's escape.  It's difficult to reason with an animal or a young child and nearly impossible to provide the intensity of supervision required when they are together.  It is best to make sure that no one is in a position to get hurt and that means keeping baby and pet far from one another.

Plan for your pet’s long-term health and happiness.  Consider getting pet health insurance so that unexpected illness or injury doesn't cost you an obscene amount of money.  Also, consider what to do with your pet when you are not around.  Find a good, responsible pet sitter who can make sure your pet receives quality care when you're away from home on vacation or business.  Some people even set up trusts for their animals or make provisions for them in their wills.  It might sound strange, but your pet is a member of your family.  If you have children, you should already have figured out who you want to raise them in your absence.  Do the same for your pet.  Don't just assume that your family will figure it out.  This can lead to abuse, neglect, or even the putting to sleep of an otherwise healthy and loving animal.

Remember, when choosing a pet, choose wisely.  Think about their long-term needs and yours.  Choose an animal based on personality and health as opposed to looks.  Also, don't forget that you have responsibilities to your pet, your family and anyone who might come into contact with them. 

Related Links:

• Check out the National Animal Interest Alliance.
• Understand the liability of dog owners.
• Find out more about setting up pet trusts.