Everything is NOT for Everyone

How many times have we heard the old cliché "everything isn't for everybody?" Well this couldn't be more true for adopting a pet.  There are many facets that go into becoming a pet parent and although many people embark on that journey its sad to say many do not complete the journey.  Being around pet parents some think it's easy to have a pet especially a dog.  Look at the benefits of having a do to name a few.

                                    1)      They do not judge

                                    2)      They give unconditional love

                                    3)      They're true companions

                                    4)      They keep you healthy by getting you off the couch

                                    5)      They help with your social life

 The list goes on and on however, what most people fail to realize is the true life changes that occur when one adopts a dog.  Changes that occur are as follows:

                                 1)    Waking up in the  middle of the night/early morning to let the dog out or walk dog             

                            2)     Veterinary cost (wellness check up) maybe emergency visits (very costly)

                                    3)      Purchase food, treats (clothes maybe)

                                    4)      Purchase collar, leash, dog bed (maybe), crate, tags

             5)      Registration cost (county, municipality) usually a small yearly fee

                                    6)      Potty accidents (poop, pee)

                                    7)     Cost for training

                                  8)      Purchase medication (heartworm prevention meds monthly), flea and tick (some areas are seasonal/spring, summer or warmer climates all year round)

                                    9)   Change in work and after work outings/travel

 Adopting a pet should not be a decision taken lightly.  Considering the holiday season is over, many  people received a pet as a present without understanding what they were getting involved in.  This is a personal experience we have experienced within our family.  A pup we rescued in September was adopted to a family member on Christmas.  We did our best to convey to the family member what to expect and they learned the hard way that they were not ready to be a parent pet.  Within the first week the family member complained and we did our part  in providing guidance and solutions however, the family member was not committed to being a pet parent.  The family member admitted they went into it blindly and didn't take our advice seriously.  As a result the pup is back with us.  This scenario is played out many, many, many times throughout the year.  The person/persons drop the animal off at the shelter and is free to carry on with their life with no regard for the pet.  Then you have people and organizations such as us that come by to pick up the pieces.  Animals are not disposable and are NOT for everybody.  If you or someone you know is considering adoption but have questions we provide a service, "Paw Consulting" where we go through a process to help determine if a person or family is ready for a pup which includes a mock adoption (fostering a pup for a trial period). At the end of the process the person or family will know for sure that they are ready to be a pet parent.  More information is on our website www.chicwithpits.com