Grand County Pet Pals believes that adopting a pet is a LIFETIME COMMITMENT to a FOREVER HOME. Can you make that commitment? Most dogs and cats live 10 to 15 years old or longer. Owning a pet is a serious responsibility, emotionally and financially, and isn’t a decision that should be made without putting a lot of thought into it.
Ask yourself these questions and then decide if you are ready to become a pet owner with all its associated trials and joys.
- How old you will be in 15 years?
- How many times might you move in the next 15 years?
- Are you willing to move your pet too, with possible restrictions on housing choices where a pet is allowed?
- What changes might happen in your life? Marriage? Children? Will you be willing to continue spending the time, energy, and money to care for your pet?
- What if your future spouse or children are allergic or can’t get along with your pet?
- If you’re getting a pet for children you have now, how old will they be in 15 years?
- Will you still want this pet after the kids have grown up and moved out
- Can you afford, and are you willing, to pay for a lifetime of food, bowls, collars, toys, medications, behavioral training, veterinarian visits, vaccinations, and kitty litter?
- Do you have time to feed, train, groom, socialize, clean up after, exercise, play with and offer affection and companionship to a pet?
- Do you have the space for the type of pet you want?