Things to consider before adopting a pet

For many Australians a pet is an important part of the family. Owning a pet can be extremely rewarding and can bring hours (and years) of enjoyment, but it is important to remember that pet ownership is also a full time responsibility which takes time, money, patience and life-long commitment. The decision to own a pet is a very serious one and one that needs to be properly considered and researched.

Companion animals rely almost entirely on their human partners to meet their needs and this responsibility should not be taken lightly. Your choice of pet should take into account environmental and family lifestyle issues, financial considerations and time constraints.

Purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive decision. RSPCA shelters Australia-wide receive thousands of unwanted and abandoned animals each year due to ill considered decisons. Before you make the decision to become a pet owner ask yourself the following questions:

Am I prepared to love a pet for life?

The average lifespan of a dog and cat is around 12 years, with some dogs and cats living until 15 or more years of age. Your pet will need your love and care 365 days a year.

Can I afford a pet?

There are many costs involved with pet ownership. In addition to food, you must consider vaccination, micro-chipping, de-sexing, general health care, vet bills, grooming, obedience training, boarding, bedding and proper housing. The costs may vary depending on the type of animal you choose - costs associated with dog ownership can be as much as $500 a year. Remember that pets are an expensive addition to the family.

Do I understand how to care for a pet?

Different animals have different needs and requirements. In most states and territories there are organisations which can advise on the specific needs of your chosen pet. An informed pet owner can provide a healthier and happier environment for their pet.

Do I have time to care for a pet?

Exercise, grooming, obedience and play are important aspects of pet ownership. Some pets will be more demanding on your time than others.

Do I live in suitable accommodation and do I have adequate space for a pet?

A large dog will require a large backyard and adequate fencing, and a horse will require agistment at a property with appropriate fencing and supervision. Your home is a significant factor in determining whether you are suitable as a pet owner. If you live in a rented property please think carefully before committing yourself to a pet. Whilst some landlords allow pets, many do not. Pet ownership may cause difficulties if you wish to change rented accommodation. Please see the RSPCA ACT publication 'Dogs in Apartments' for more information.

Will a pet fit into my lifestyle and priorities?

Working long hours, enjoying a hectic social life and regularly taking trips away are all factors which need to be considered before purchasing a pet. A pet will always depend on you and must be accommodated in your lifestyle. Are you prepared to make that commitment?

If you are sure that you can offer an animal a good home, please consider visiting your local RSPCA shelter. The RSPCA receives thousands of surrendered or stray animals each year. All animals available for adoption have undergone health and temperament checks and deserve a second chance.

Be very careful when purchasing an animal from a marketplace, pet shop, private breeder or any place where large numbers of pets are kept for sale. Never purchase a pet that looks unwell, or is for sale with other animals that look unwell. Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with proof of vaccinations and information on how to properly care for your pet and should be willing to take the animal back if a health problem becomes apparent within a reasonable time after purchase.

Thinking of adopting a dog?

Never buy a dog or puppy as a gift without checking with the recipient.
Do not adopt an animal on impulse - carefully think it through.
Dogs can live for 10+ years - you will be committing to look after your dog for the rest of its life.
Is your yard secure? - Appropriate gates and fences will keep your dog safe.
Dogs need daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
Dogs thrive on company - you will need to be able to spend quality time with your dog every day.
Dogs need plenty of mental stimulation such as toys, games, and food puzzles.
All dogs need training to help them learn the house rules and bond with their new family.
Dogs left alone in the yard for large amounts of time each day may become destructive and/or attempt to escape.
There are ongoing costs associated with any animal, such as veterinary care, worming, food, supplies and boarding facilities.
You will need to exercise care when introducing your new dog to existing family pets and children. You will need to let them get to know each other in their own time. This can sometimes take weeks or months.
If you live in a rental property, do you have written permission from your landlord/real estate agent?
If your circumstances change - a house move; a career transfer; a change in marital status - are you prepared to make an effort to take your pet with you?
To often we hear "the children want a pet", but it is the parents who must take the ultimate responsibility for the pets health and well-being. Also, the pet may still be part of the family for some years after the children have grown up and left home. Are you prepared for that? If not, take the children shopping for a fluffy toy!

Thinking of adopting a cat?

Never buy a cat or a kitten as a gift without checking with the recipient.
Do not adopt an animal on impulse - carefully think it through.
Cats can sometimes live for 20+ years - you will be committing to look after your cat for the rest of its life.
Indoor or outdoor? Consider keeping your cat indoors for its health and wellbeing. Native wildlife may be impacted if your cat is allowed to roam free, especially at night. Your cat can also be at risk from snakes, traffic and misadventure.
There are ongoing costs associated with owning any animal, such as veterinary care, worming, food, supplies and boarding facilities
If you are planning to allow your cat outdoors during the day, we recommend keeping your cat entirely indoors for the first few weeks to allow it to settle in.
Introduce your new cat to children and existing pets slowly and carefully. Allow them to get to know each other in their own time. This can sometimes take weeks or months.
If you live in a rental property, do you have written permission from your landlord/real estate agent?
If you live in Forde or Bonner, your cat MUST be contained 24 hours a day.
If your circumstances change - a house move; a career transfer; a change in marital status - are you prepared to make an effort to take your pet with you?
To often we hear "the children want a pet", but it is the parents who must take the ultimate responsibility for the pets health and well-being. Also, the pet may still be part of the family for some years after the children have grown up and left home. Are you prepared for that? If not, take the children shopping for a fluffy toy!