Sharing our lives with pets can result in wonderful, enriching experiences. This is why we in veterinary medicine should do all we can to encourage a responsible pet ownership to ensure a mutually successful and rewarding experience between people and their pets.
A dog, cat, rabbit, ferret, gerbil, bird or any other pet is a living and sensitive creature. Each is truly unique, yet they require and deserve lifelong emotional and physical attention. In addition to this time commitment, an owner must take into consideration the financial costs associated with feeding, grooming, veterinary care, supplies, and, in the case of dogs, sometimes training.
Once these issues have been considered and an individual decides he or she is up to the task of pet ownership, the next step is to determine that kind of pet is appropriate. There are numerous sources of information available today on every kind of pet imaginable, and a prepared, well-informed owner will face fewer surprises down the road. Books, internet sites, breeders, veterinarians, humane societies and rescue groups can all provide information and offer advice to prospective owners.
The majority of the time, an owners lifestyle is the biggest factor in determining the compatibility factor. Children, physical space, financial means and time available for the pet are all important considerations. For example, a Jack Russell puppy (you’ve heard of dynamite in small packages) would likely be a poor choice if the potential owners lived in confined quarters, had young, active children and did not have time to adequately exercise (exhaust) their puppy daily. The owners in such a situation would either have to possess the patience of Job in putting up with the puppy’s behaviour, or more realistically and ethically, find a home more suitable for the dog.
It s important not to be misled by common misconceptions such as “all cats are too independent and antisocial” or “all dogs require a house with a yard.” Most cats are very social and thrive on attention from their owners. As for dogs and yards, what they really need is a time commitment for socialization and exercise.
We do not need to limit our choices to dogs and cats, of course. Many people derive great pleasure from rabbits, birds, pocket pets and fish. Regardless of the type of pet one is interested in, keep in mind pet ownership should be based on a serious commitment rather than frivolous desires or impulsive urges. Considering all our pets to offer us, they certainly deserve this much.
Talk to a member of our Pet Health Care Team at Upper Canada Animal Hospital if you have any questions on pet ownership, and finding the right fit for you.
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