Page 15 - IFV Issue 7_2023

Lifestyle

2. Time and commitment 5. Compatibility bringing your new pet home to children.
Owning a pet requires a significant time Consider the breed, size, personality and Where possible, choose to adopt a pet
commitment. Pets need daily attention, energy level of the pet you’re interested rather than shop for one. However, if you
including feeding, grooming and exercise, in to ensure that it will be a good fit for are choosing a pure breed, make sure you
as well as emotional support. Make sure your lifestyle and living arrangements. are dealing with a reputable breeder.
you have the time to devote to your pet Research the different breeds and their
and that your schedule allows for the characteristics to find one that suits your Integrating your fur baby into your
necessary attention and care. needs. Your veterinarian can give you household
some recommendations based on your Pets are members of the family. Once
3. Lifestyle family and lifestyle situation. you’ve brought your new fur baby home,
Consider your daily schedule and Consider visiting animal shelters and consider all the ways you can create a
activities, as well as your future plans, to spending time with potential pets to get better, healthier life together.
determine if a pet would fit in with your a feel for their personalities and energy “One of the most important things
lifestyle. If you’re frequently travelling or levels. It will help you choose a pet that a pet owner should do is stay up to
have a demanding schedule, a pet may will be a good match for your family. date with vaccinations,” says Dent.
not be a good fit unless you want your This is particularly important if you are “This protects pets and their families. A
furry friend to travel with you. vaccination schedule helps owners stay
There are many holiday venues that on top of which vaccines are due once
accommodate pets, so do your research they take their pets to their veterinarian
and check if your new companion can for a check-up.”
be involved in your day-to-day life both
at home and away. It can be deeply Of course, just like with humans,
rewarding to include pets in all personal healthy pets live healthier and happier
and family activities. lifestyles. Make sure that your pet is
eating a good, balanced diet that suits
4. Cost their breed and size and that maintains
Owning a pet can be expensive as you the health of their fur and teeth. If you’re
need to spend on food, toys, grooming big on exercise, include your pet in your
supplies and medical expenses. It’s a good workout routine.
idea to take out pet insurance and to have
a rainy-day fund for unexpected expenses. “A walk a day offers enormous health
Budget for regular veterinary visits and benefits for people and their pets,” says
proactive treatments such as a regular tick Dent. “It’s the perfect way to spend
and flea regime to circumvent problems quality time together while getting the
down the line. heart rate up.”

The Villager • Issue 7 2023 • 13