Owning a Pet

Are you interested in owning a new pet? Are you a new owner with questions? Well here are all the answers!

First of all RESPONSIBILITY!!! You will be completely responsible for your pet it's whole life! That means if you have or want a dog or cat you will be caring for your pet for 15-20 years, or longer! A rodent or fish may live up to five years or shorter. This however is not true if you have a rabbit or a budgie.

The second thing you should know is that your pet may need a lot of time! All animals have different needs. This will help you narrow down your choice on pets depending on your extra activities. Some dogs and cats require a lot of time when some do not require as much time. Review your schedule and make sure there is time for a pet.

Another thing you should know is that buying your pet is not what will cost you the most. The costs will add up over the years. Food supplies, healthcare, licensing, and vacation care are just a few things that will cost you while you have your pet.

Your new pet should fit your life style. Will you like taking a dog for a walk everyday? Will your pet be on its own for a long period of time in a day? This may be uncomfortable for some dogs or cats. Is your house big enough for your pet? If you have an apartment you may not be able to own a large dog. I would recommend a small dog, a cat , or a caged animal for people living in an apartment. There may be a weight limit for pets in some places. Do you travel a lot? Will your animal travel with you? There are usually fares if your animals fly. If your dog travels with you by car you may be limited on room. But a small animal would be a great companion for travel!

You can visit a breeder and ask to see your pet's parents. This will show you some of the characteristics your pet may have when it is an adult. You can also ask them about your pets background and behavior. Ask about diseases genetically associated with the breed that you have chosen. Is your breed easy to train? Discuss your needs, likes, expectations and commitments with a veterinarian.

When you bring home your pet there are also many tasks and responsibilities at first and they could get bigger, such as diet. Know the diet and feeding schedule for your pet. Introduce changes in diet slowly. The amount, frequency, and type of diet will change with your pets age. You will want to feed your pet in a quiet a protected place! This is very important! Make sure that all the members of your house hold are trained to handle your pet

You need to make sure that your pet is protected! You can make sure it is protected by respecting the local laws that have to do with pets. If you have a dog you should keep it on a leash in public places at all times! Obey the laws on cleaning up your dog's mess. Another way to protect your pets to provide a closed shelter for your pet protecting them from harsh weather conditions. Never leave your pet alone in a car! Over heating can lead to death! Your pet should have check ups often so you can make sure your pet is healthy and strong.

Rabies is a critical disease that dogs and cats can get. To prevent this disease you can get a vaccination at your local veterinarian.

Spaying and neutering is recommended for many reasons. Spaying or neutering your pet will reduce disorders, including cancer in both males and females. It also decreases aggressive behavior, roaming, injuries, and unwanted litters. Vets recommend that females are to be spayed at about six weeks, before her first heat. Males should be neutered from six to twelve weeks.

The last thing you should know is that you need to identify your pet. Your pet should always wear a collar! A license tag is one of the best things that could identify your pet.. Attach a label to the collar with your pets name, your address, and your phone number on it. You can also take photos and record your pets color, special markings, breed, weight, and age. Tattoos or microchips are available through programs operated by Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, The Canadian Kennel Club, or Humane Societies.

These are very important things that you need to know in owning a new pet! I hope this helps you with your new best friend!

- Hayli, 13, California