Page 42 - Waterfall City Issue 6 June 2023

Waterfall City Lifestyle

shouldn’t be taken lightly,” says Dr Tarryn commitment. Pets need daily attention, as a regular tick and flea regime to
Dent, business unit lead: Companion including feeding, grooming and circumvent problems down the line.
Animals at Zoetis South Africa, a global exercise, as well as emotional support.
animal health company. Make sure you have the time to devote 5. Compatibility
to your pet and that your schedule allows Consider the breed, size, personality and
Dent has five tips that people should for the necessary attention and care. energy level of the pet you’re interested
consider before choosing a pet: in to ensure that it will be a good fit for
3. Lifestyle your lifestyle and living arrangements.
1. Space and living Consider your daily schedule and Research the different breeds and their
arrangements activities, as well as your future plans, to characteristics to find one that suits your
When considering pet ownership, it’s determine if a pet would fit in with your needs. Your veterinarian can give you
important to ensure that your living lifestyle. If you’re frequently travelling or some recommendations based on your
space is suitable for the size and breed have a demanding schedule, a pet may family and lifestyle situation.
of pet you’re interested in. For example, not be a good fit unless you want your
cats generally require less space than furry friend to travel with you. Consider visiting animal shelters and
dogs, but some dog breeds require large spending time with potential pets to
gardens for exercise or daily walks. There are many holiday venues that get a feel for their personalities and
accommodate pets, so do your research energy levels. It will help you choose a
It’s important to pet-proof your home and check if your new companion can pet that will be a good match for your
to ensure that your pet is safe and be involved in your day-to-day life both family. This is particularly important if
comfortable. This can include securing at home and away. It can be deeply you are bringing your new pet home
loose wires, moving poisonous plants rewarding to include pets in all personal to children. Where possible, choose to
and making sure that your pet has a and family activities. adopt a pet rather than shop for one.
designated sleeping area. You’ll need to However, if you are choosing a pure
secure your fence so your new pet does 4. Cost breed, make sure you are dealing with a
not get out. Losing a pet can be heart- Owning a pet can be expensive as you reputable breeder.
breaking for both the owner and the need to spend on food, toys, grooming
community who is trying to return a lost supplies and medical expenses. It’s a Integrating your fur baby into
pet but does not know who it belongs to. good idea to take out pet insurance and your household
to have a rainy-day fund for unexpected Pets are members of the family. Once
2. Time and commitment expenses. Budget for regular veterinary you’ve brought your new fur baby
Owning a pet requires a significant time visits and proactive treatments such home, consider all the ways you can
create a better, healthier life together.

“One of the most important things a pet
owner should do is stay up to date with
vaccinations,” says Dent. “This protects
pets and their families. A vaccination
schedule helps owners stay on top of
which vaccines are due once they take
their pets to their veterinarian for a
check-up.”

Of course, just like with humans, healthy
pets live healthier and happier lifestyles.
Make sure that your pet is eating a
good, balanced diet that suits their
breed and size and that maintains the
health of their fur and teeth. If you’re
big on exercise, include your pet in your
workout routine.

“A walk a day offers enormous health
benefits for people and their pets,” says
Dent. “It’s the perfect way to spend
quality time together while getting the
heart rate up.”

40 Waterfall City Issue 6 2023