The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Pet

Pets that share our homes keep us company, reduce feelings of stress, and may even help us live longer, according to a report on animals and human health by Maggie O'Haire from Queensland University. When considering the pros and cons of adopting a pet, look closely at all factors to determine whether the choice fits your home, family and lifestyle.

  1. Companionship

    • Pets offer companionship, accompanying us on walks, while exercising and greeting us at the end of each work day. Older people can benefit from the companionship of animals, particularly if they live alone. Choose a mature pet---shelters are a good source---or one that requires little exercise when seeking a pet for less mobile people.

    Commitment

    • Adopting any pet is a serious commitment; people must consider how much time is available for tasks such as walking and grooming animals or attending obedience classes. Space is usually not an issue with smaller pets, particularly those in cages or fishbowls; most larger animals will find small apartments confining without regular exercise. Prospective pet owners who travel away from home on a regular basis must decide who will be responsible for pets during absences; for those who live alone, reputable kennels---ask local veterinarians for recommendations---are an option.

    Costs

    • Pet owners incur a number of costs. These include medical bills, food, toys, beds and modifications to the home, such as cat doors or fencing. Reduce your initial costs by adopting a pet from a local animal shelter, making sure the animal has a clean bill of health from the shelter's attending veterinarian. Shop at local yard sales for articles such as kennels, pet beds and blankets, making sure to wash and disinfect purchases thoroughly before using. Learn how to cook and freeze batches of homemade pet food from recipes, using inexpensive ingredients such as rice and barley. Costs of spaying or neutering cats and dogs are reduced by searching for specials at shelters or local vets as part of drives to reduce numbers of stray animals.

    Children

    • Children benefit from interaction with pets; caring for animals teaches them to take on the responsibility of feeding, exercising and grooming. Choosing a pet involves considering the habits and safety of family members, particularly children. Nervous or over-excitable pets and lively kids are a poor mixture, but energetic pets will adore the attention and play happily for hours. Young children always need supervision when interacting with pets; wagging tails are particularly likely to attract the curiosity of toddlers.