Realities of Owning a Pet

Pets, like friends, are usually the family members we get to select for ourselves. This is how I view pets, at least. There is a large difference from owning your own pet from having a family pet. I think that many of us who grow up with family pets don't realize all the realities of having that life depend on us. I would definitely include myself in this category which is how this post gained the concept for writing. 

1. Pets tend to be expensive - This might sound odd, funny or obvious but it's true. Between grooming, vet bills, toys and food, pets cost a mini fortune when you start to add all the money spent together. Obviously, certain pets are much more economical than others, think fish versus a cat. 

2. Pets can be high maintenance - Once again, think cat or dog versus fish. Fish, outside of cleaning the tank, are relatively low maintenance. Dogs are on the high maintenance spectrum with exercise, attention, affection, training and grooming (dependent upon breed). Having a Pomeranian, for instance, kills my wallet in the grooming department. 

3. Traveling can become hard with pets - Pets have to be factored in when traveling, even if it is a short trip. Will you have someone come over to check on the pet or will you board the pet? How much do you want to pay or can pay for either of these? Do you have family or friends that wouldn't charge or would be more reasonably priced? Another thing to consider is if you want to bring the pet with you. Boarding fees, shot requirements and more then need to be factored and considered when planning a trip. It just got a whole lot more complicated, right?

4. Pets become part of your family - Pets become our confidants, our shadow and take a special place in our hearts and lives. This is a very positive thing and sometimes they can really be great support systems, especially those suffering from anxiety, depression or other mental/cognitive illnesses. Caring for a pet also acts as a really good grooming tool for those considering children because, like children, they rely solely on your to survive. 

5. Just because you want it, doesn't mean it works for you - This is a hard lesson, but it's one that needs to be faced. Many people want the cute puppy or kitten until they have one. They realize their work and personal life schedules don't line up well with properly caring for the pet. Others learn they have allergies or can't properly bond to the pet. All of these are scenarios in which it is better to give the pet a proper home than to keep it with you and make it and yourself miserable.