Vets on Call
Whether it’s your first pet or you already have a family pet, it can be tricky knowing when’s the best time to bring a new pet into your family. The bond created between pets and their owners can be one of the most fulfilling relationships in a person’s life and there are some fantastic benefits to children. But it’s not without its challenges. Vets around the world are seeing the influx of pet abandonment since the explosion of new pet ownership during Covid 19.
Before adding a pet, you should be confident your kids:
- Are comfortable around animals
- Are respectful towards animals
- Can participate in caring for the pet
- Are on board with getting a family pet
Consider a ‘trial run’ – try pet sitting for a friend or fostering with a pet rescue group! Pet-sitting or spending time with friend’s and family’s pets will also give your family a chance to see if anyone has an allergic reaction.
Before embarking on this adventure, make sure you and your family understand and accept the huge responsibility of bringing a new member into the mix. Don’t forget exercise, play, veterinary care are just some of the necessities of owning a family pet.
Ask yourself a few questions before you pick a new friend to add to your family:
- Do you have the time to dedicate to a new pet?
Consider house training, required exercise, play, feeding routines etc.
- What pet would best suit your family?
Pets come in all shapes and sizes and (energy levels!) Research different types of pets and breeds. Cats and dogs are popular choices for family pets but smaller pets like guinea pigs or hamsters can be great pets for kids – they’re social, can play and don’t have very long lifespans (no long-term commitment).
- What veterinary care will my pet need?
Many people take on pet ownership without understanding that pets need medical care just like the rest of us. Whether it’s routine care such as annual vaccines and check-ups or care commonly associated with your chosen breed or species, make sure to look into the required care and costs.
- Where should I get my pet?
Consider if you want to adopt a pet or purchase from a registered breeder. There are benefits to both, but you should never buy from an unregistered breeder. Registered breeders will ensure that the pet’s parents have been screened for genetic issues, will have the pets checked by a vet and may have already started essential vaccinations.
- Am I ready for a long term commitment?
Depending on the species and breed, your pet could have a life expectancy of 10 to 20 years.
- What are we going to do with our pet when we go on holiday?
It’s easy to take for granted that family or friends can take care of your pet but make sure to have these conversations before you make the decision to get a pet. Look into costs involved in boarding your pet in kennels or pet hotels, it’s another expense on top of your holiday.
- Can I expect other costs?
Be aware of other costs involved in owning a pet – food, grooming (especially all poodle X breeds), nail trimming, training, kennel/cattery etc.
As parents, we’re most likely to be the one carrying the responsibility of pet ownership and this can take up a lot of our time – remember, you’re adding a new member to the family.
There can be a lot to learn when a pet is added to the family, from making our homes pet-safe, toilet training pets, getting on top of the correct nutrition plan and possibly training, especially if you’re thinking of getting a dog. When it comes to training, make sure your kids are involved in this and feel comfortable discouraging unwanted behaviour from pets (such as jumping on people or begging for food).
Getting your new pet checked out by a vet is an essential part of welcoming them to the family. From vaccinations, health checks, nutrition and behaviour your vet can advise you on the best course of action for your new addition! Vets on Call make juggling busy family life and vet care easier than ever, with in-home consultations that can be booked online or on the Vets on Cal app in seconds.
Pet ownership is one of the most fulfilling things anyone can do and it can be a wonderful experience when the entire family is taking part.
Vets on Call is a full service veterinary provider using a custom built mobile app to deliver veterinary services to your home. Visit www.vetsoncall.pet for more information.
