By Dr. Fernando Riera S.
A dog? or a cat?
Before getting a pet, please, ask yourself why do you want to have it, and if you can actually provide it with an adequate lifestyle.
Invariably, the following questions arise, all of them related to our ability to care for a pet. It is not only a matter of giving it food and water, but also dealing with their illnesses, vaccinations, emergencies, etc.
1. Do I have time? A pet needs love, playtime, walking time, care, food, and water.
2. Am I able to have a pet in my house? If it is a rental, does the lease allow pets?
3. Why do I want a pet? Is it an impulse, fashion, or just because I liked it?
4. Can I take care of it throughout its life? Remember the average lifespan of a dog is 12 years; cats live longer. An animal cannot be discarded, given away, or put down when we can no longer take care of it. We make a sacred commitment to life when we acquire a pet!
5. Can anyone help me during my absence? Do I have a trustworthy person to help if I need to travel, or if I am sick?
6. Do I have a sedentary lifestyle, or is there something that prevents me from exercising a hyperactive dog?
7. Can I deal with his mischief, like eating my new shoes? Will I be strong enough not to explode and beat it up?
If our economic, physical, or emotional situation is not stable enough, it may not the best time to adopt a pet, which will become a member of the family, and as I said before… it is a lifetime commitment!
