The Frugal Pet Parent

What to Do Before Bringing Home a Furry Friend

Awhile ago I started collecting a list of the top ten money-wasters. They were all different, and all subjective. But one of the most foolish was the one that included having a pet as a categorical money-waster.

While it is true that sharing your life with the critter of your choice does have a price tag, but so do most things, including children. This is one of the reasons we are frugal to begin with-so that we can have kids and pets and other wonderful thing that complicate our lives while they make our lives worth living.

That being said, there are a few things you need to ask yourself before you make the leap.

Are you prepared to pay all of the maintenance costs of your chosen companion? And what are those expenses?  All pets need to eat everyday (well, maybe not reptiles, but you get the idea.) But it doesn’t stop there.

What about veterinarian bills? Behavior training? Toys?  Bedding? It varies depending on what you have in mind, but there will be maintenance costs no matter what.

If you really can’t afford it you should reconsider the whole project.

The one exception is the homeless stray that you rescue from the feral life. In that case, even if you can’t really afford the best care possible, you are sharing what you have and the animal is still better off than before. I have seen homeless people with cats and dogs that are very committed to their pets, but the animal shares a rough and tumble life.

So, what kind of pet should you get? You likely already know what you want. There is not much anyone can say to influence what tugs at your heartstrings. This is about love.

It’s easier to answer the question of where to go for your new household member. Be kind and start with the animal shelter. Even if you have your heart set on something exotic like a parrot you might check there first. Or go online and see if there is a rescue organization for your chosen breed. You will be saving a life.

Bringing home a pet is a commitment to a living being that you will care for it properly. This takes thought. There is a time commitment as well as a financial consideration. Our pets need attention and love. If you work eighty hours a week or are a first year law student maybe you should get a fish and leave it at that.

Finally, can you make a lifetime commitment to your pet? If you move, they come with you. If you take on a partner or have a baby, your pet is part of the deal. Only “rehome” if you are in hospice. And name a successor in your will.

This includes tending to their end of life care. Having a longtime companion literally die in your arms may break you. But you OWE them that. For all the times they rescued you.

Are you all set? Do you have a full understanding of your commitment?

Now is the time to set up your home for the new arrival. There are plenty of books at the library and used book store on the particular requirements of your future pet. Just make sure everything is in place before you bring that carrier or box in from the shelter, breeder, or pet store. Have food, food bowls, water bowls, bedding, and a good vet.

Then, if it is a critter that roams free, put her in one room for a bit till she becomes comfortable enough in her new surroundings to not be a flight risk. Give her food, attention, toys, and love. But let her decide about petting or other touch. Give her a chance to learn to trust you.

Bringing home a non-human companion should never be done on impulse. But if you follow these steps you will begin one of the most loving relationships of your life.

You are going to be great at this!