Pet Talk: Adopting a pet is a big responsibility

But after giving in to desire and surprising the family with a new furry friend, you found that caring for a new puppy was not exactly what you expected.

Adopting a pet can be rewarding, but certain steps must be made before both you and your pet can be ready for the transition.

“It’s important to avoid impulse adopting,” said Dr. Karen Snowden, an associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

“Pets are a life-long commitment,” Snowden said. “Dogs and cats can live 10 to 15 years, while parrots and turtles will live much longer.”

So, how do you know if you are ready to adopt a pet? Snowden believes the first step of the process is to evaluate your needs and lifestyle.

“Before adopting a pet, a potential owner needs to consider the amount of space in the home available to accommodate the pet,” Snowden said.

“Evaluating the amount of time and care that can be spent with the animal, as well as the activity level of both owner and pet, is important, too. Fish are not as demanding as a dog that needs jogging everyday and therefore may be a more suitable choice for a relatively inactive or time-pressed individual.”

Once you have decided which type of pet to adopt, it is time to choose where to search for your affectionate friend.

“Some great places to find a dog or cat are the local shelters, or breeders,” Snowden said. “There are fewer sources for reptiles and birds, however many can be found at local breeders or rescue groups, as well as at local pet stores.”