What should owners prepare before adopting a pet?

Janique Goff Madison is a photography student who volunteers at a local shelter during her spare time. Through the years, she has seen many pets find their new families. As a volunteer, her tasks go beyond taking care of the animals. She is also involved in helping potential owners find their new pets. According to Janique, here's what new pet parents need to prepare before they take their dog or cat home.
Image source: Pixabay.com

Image source: Pixabay.com
A pet-proofed home

Aside from keeping the house clean, owners need to prepare a space where their pets can feel comfortable. Of course, this doesn't have to be a big space. The dog or cat needs a corner where they can rest, play, eat, and do other things without distraction. Janique Goff Madison notes that owners should also invest in litters, beds, toys, food and water containers, and other essentials. Having their needs in one part of the house will keep them from ruining furniture or from going into potentially dangerous parts of the house.

Finances

Aside from the adoption fee, owners should also prepare for other expenses that come with getting a pet. Vet's appointments, food, toys, grooming, and other needs might be costly when the owners are not prepared. Having a budget allocation for pets will make it easier for owners to give them the best without compromising the family’s other needs.

Task delegation

Janique Goff Madison shares that having pets is a great way to teach kids about taking responsibility. To make sure that everyone in the household is on the same page, parents should orient their children about what they can do to help take care of the new pet. There are many tasks involved with raising a pet but it will be a joy if everyone can help out. Before taking the pet home, discuss and delegate the work to prepare everyone at home.

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