Veterinary technicians and veterinarians are here to help you have a long and happy life with your pet. However, before you go out and buy the first one you see, we want to ensure that you choose the right one.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right pet for you and your family.
Look closely at your lifestyle.
If you are busy running from one activity to another, you won’t have time for a dog that needs to spend hours outside running and getting its energy out.
If you live on a farm, you are probably going to want a dog that wants to be out with you all the time. A smaller dog may get in the way of a tractor, so it might not be the best pet for you. However, if you live in a small apartment, a small dog might have plenty of room to exercise!
Dogs aren’t the only pets to consider. A cat may be the perfect companion for you. They don’t need much, just food, water, and a clean litter pan. Even if you work outside the home for hours at a time, they would be content until you get home. They are not as social as dogs, so they make great pets for those who are really busy.
You also need to remember that some pets need more grooming than others.
Many small-breed dogs and Doodles require regular grooming. Besides visiting the groomer several times a year, they often require regular brushing. You may need to set aside some time every week to keep your furry friend looking nice.
Long-haired cats are the same way. Although you may not take them to the groomer, you will need to devote some time every week to keep their coats as nice as possible.
As well as activity.
Some dogs will require significantly more exercise than others. Puppies will need to go out multiple times a day, both to use the bathroom and to play. Older dogs may not want to go out as often, so if you aren’t home as much, an older dog may be better for you.
It is important to know that there is no such thing as a fully hypoallergenic dog or cat.
Dogs and cats spread allergy-causing proteins through their saliva and urine. It also sticks to their fur, which may make a fluffy dog or cat the wrong choice for a person with allergies.
However, there are some breeds that don’t shed as much, though they may still bother someone with allergies. There are also hairless options, though they aren’t very common.
You also need to ensure that you train your pet, especially dogs.
In the veterinary field, we are seeing an increasing number of young adult dogs that are out of control at the veterinarian. COVID kept everyone at home, and they were not able to socialize their dogs properly. They only know the safety of their home and the owner.
However, there is no excuse for these dogs to be difficult to handle on a leash. You need to play with your new dog’s ears and feet so that he or she will let us clean them and trim the nails.
Before you get your next pet, you need to make sure you choose wisely. You need to look closely at your lifestyle to determine what is the best pet for you. You can’t get a dog that needs to run off plenty of energy when you live in a small apartment and don’t have time for multiple walks a day.
In fact, a dog might not be your best bet. Instead, you may want to get two cats, so that they can keep each other company while you are living your life! You also need to realize that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic pet! Though some won’t bother your allergies as much as others, the truth is that all pets have proteins that will cause allergic reactions.
Once you get a pet, you need to make sure you train it. Too many dogs are out of control at the veterinary office, scared of everything because they have never been exposed to anything (or anyone). You need to ensure that your dog is comfortable walking on a leash and accustomed to being handled, particularly around the ears and feet.
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Can’t get enough? You can catch up on the rest of the series right here!
The original: Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know
The second part: More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know
The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (and Vets) Want Pet Owners To Know
Followed by: Choose the Right Pet
The last one: We Don’t Want To Talk About Money
Want to read the original? Catch up on it right here!
The original: Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing
The second part: More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing
The third part: Even More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing
The last one (I think): Some More Things Vet Techs (And Vets) Are Tired of Hearing
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.