Are You Ready For A Furry Family Addition?

A couple of years ago when I moved out of my parents’ home for the first time, I wanted to get a pet. I grew up with cats and was pretty dead set on a kitten until finding out my new boyfriend at the time was allergic, so that was out. I had never really had a dog of my own and I said, "Why not? Can’t be that different."

Although this post is not about being a delusional eighteen year old, I obviously was because cats are NOTHING like dogs. Of course, I "knew" that but I really just wanted a pet and convinced myself I was ready for one.

And so, I got my baby, Zissou, a little black Pomeranian, which not only did I find to be incredibly adorable but also worked well for apartments which I still live in today. Even though I knew Poms were good for small spaces, I had no idea the kind of commitment I was getting into right as I entered some of the craziest years of my life! From moving every year with full time school and jobs, raising my little guy was not easy. Although the experience has been incredibly rewarding and I don’t regret anything- I love Zissou with all my heart! Just look at him! – I wish I had been more prepared. 

Here are some things to ask yourself before adding your package of paws to the family.

What are your living arrangements?

This is the first thing to consider. If you decide you are ready for a dog, you should get one that will be comfortable in your environment. A huge Great Dane would probably not be the best pick if you have a tiny apartment without a yard. Make sure to pick a breed that can adapt to your space. Also, ask yourself what your future looks like. Are you going to be moving soon? Maybe you have a backyard now but does that loft in your college town have space for your new addition? Dogs live up to twenty years in some breeds so make sure you’re ready to always make room for them.

What are your work and social lives like?

If you’re at work eight hours a day, what will your pup be doing? And after work, are you out and about enjoying the night life until the wee hours? Dogs need as much attention and love as you do and they need you there to give it to them. They aren’t going to walk themselves! If you barely even see your home, you probably won’t ever see your dog which can lead to a myriad of behavioral problems.

Can you afford your dog?

Budget out your dog expenses. Sure, things like a leash and bowls will more than likely one-time purchases but what about food, grooming and annual vet visits? The vet visits can add up quickly, especially if your pet gets sick suddenly. What can be a regular routine check-up can turn into full body x-rays and a month’s supply of a disgustingly expensive specialty diet (noooo, this tooootttally didn’t just happen to me).

Do you have a support system for your new baby?

Because it is like a baby. This animal is dependent on you for everything and there will come times when you can’t take your pup along for the ride. Make sure you have people in your life who are not only happy to take your dog while you’re in Maui for two weeks but are also trust worthy and experienced in handling dogs. Not everyone is a dog person let alone thinks like a dog owner. 

Can you handle owning a dog?

No, really! Can you handle coming home and seeing they’ve puked all over your favorite couch? Or they tore up your favorite new shoes? How will you discipline them? Are you cool with lint rolling yourself before leaving the house? Are you going to brush them every day? Not just their hair but their teeth too? Having a dog requires a certain amount of patience and understanding of how to basically parent them. Get books on the breeds you’re interested in and make sure you know how to handle your dog. 

Without the right preparation and dedication, what could be a healthy, loving relationship can turn into a very bad situation for both pet and owner. My dog is one of the most important people- yes, he’s like a person!- in my life and I encourage everyone to get a pet they can love and cherish when they have the time, environment and means to do so.