Living with animals has a tremendously positive impact on the human psyche. But if you’ve been through the pain of losing a pet, you are probably wary about letting another furry bundle of joy enter your life. It’s understandable that the grief and sadness you underwent - or are still going through - is making you hesitant.
However, there comes a time when you are finally ready to let go, open up your heart again and share your love with an adopted pet who really needs it. Here are six signs that you are ready for a new animal in your household.
Photo by Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash
An issue that many prospective pet owners might have is one regarding safety - especially if you’re still grieving and you haven’t quite got yourself or your household fully together yet.
You know how some people say that buying a car and maintaining it is like getting a baby in terms of finances? Well, getting a new family pet will definitely impact your budget in a similar fashion. First of all, you might have to pay for the pet, especially if they are of noble descent, like greyhounds or racehorses.
Another danger that pets face is falling from a height. In most cases, every floor above the ground floor should be off-limits to animals like cats or dogs unless they are very well trained. Pet owners who live in an apartment building should avoid leaving the windows open or at least install an insect mesh on the windows. If your house is ready, there’s a good chance you could be ready for a new furry friend!
You know how some people say that buying a car and maintaining it is like getting a baby in terms of finances? Well, getting a new family pet will definitely impact your budget in a similar fashion. First of all, you might have to pay for the pet, especially if they are of noble descent, like greyhounds or racehorses.
Even small pets like cats, gerbils or fish have expenses related to food, toys, medicines, etc. Furthermore, your new pet will need proper shelter, whether it’s an aquarium, a doghouse or an indoor rabbit hutch - if you don’t already have something from a previous pet. When the time comes to take the animal to the vet, you’ll need a pet carrier and to foot the medical bills, which can be in the four figures range.
Dental procedures, vaccinations, and wellness checkups are all expensive; God forbid your pet gets seriously ill so you have to visit the vet’s office on a daily basis. Finally, pets require grooming which if your not able to do it yourseelf can be expensive, some more than others.
A new pet in the house should never be an arbitrary decision on part of a single member of the household. If you are still feeling sad or anxious, consider a dog. Science has proven that dogs can actually recognize emotions in humans, and can act as a great emotional support. Specific breeds are better than others when it comes to love and affection; if you have kids in the house, consider a Golden Retriever. These dogs can support your kids through loss or growing up, plus they’re loyal, friendly, and they can develop a real bond with humans. Essentially, their behavior will be able to lift the mood in the house.
Photo by Angelina Litvin on Unsplash
We have discussed earlier how you shouldn’t get a new pet if you lack the funds for a new, four-legged member of the family. However, a new pet is going to need more than money - what they really need is to feel wanted, loved, and cared for.
If you cannot afford to lavish attention and care for your new pet, it may be best to wait until you’re ready to do so. These factors are important for their mental health, which is as important as physical wellbeing. If you are often away from home and can’t give time to your pet, they may grow aggressive or depressed.
Losing a pet can have devastating consequences on our mental health, whether we’re old or young. It takes time to grieve and accept the loss of a pet. But a dose of responsibility with a new pet is sometimes a great idea for both parents and kids, if you’re in a position where you’re able to really truly care for your new pet.
One of the worst-case scenarios is that you get a new pet and after a couple of days or weeks change your mind and your pet ends up in an animal shelter or even worse the street. Shelters will do everything in their power to look after your ex pet but they sometimes lack the funding. Sometimes, euthanasia is an option for animals they cannot find a new home for.
So, as you can see, it’s so important you’re ready to adopt a new pet before you jump into it. Read over these six signs and if you can tick each box, head to the rescue center! Getting over the loss of a pet is hard but your new furry companion will reignite your love for animals.
Contributed by John Woods