While a pet will provide many years of companionship, support, and fun, they are a big responsibility and require much time, money, and commitment. If you feel you’re ready to welcome an animal into your life, you might be eager to stock up on supplies and bring home a pet.
However, you must undertake extensive research to ensure you care for your dog, cat, or other animal with ease throughout their life. Read the following five mistakes first-time pet owners must avoid.
1. Buying a Pet from a Store
Many first-time pet owners make the big mistake of buying a pet from a store. Yet, many animals are sitting in shelters waiting for a loving home. If you adopt a pet, you will also free up a spot to help another pet receive a second chance at a new life.
Both rescue and private shelters take the time to ensure a pet goes to a responsible owner, too, and are happy to provide advice to help you care for your dog, cat, or another animal.
2. Poor Socialization
Every pet owner should attempt to socialize their pets from a young age, especially dogs and cats. If you don’t, your pet might struggle to adapt to different social settings. As a result, they might become aggressive, shy, or suffer from separation anxiety. Aim to introduce your pet to as many animals and people as possible during their youth, which will ensure they are comfortable and calm in later life.
3. Skipping a Medical Check-up
You must take your new dog, cat, or another animal along to their first appointment with a vet as soon as possible. A qualified vet could potentially identify health issues, even if your pet isn’t displaying any symptoms. Also, you must attend frequent appointments to protect their health throughout the years and stop a medical condition in its tracks.
Veterinary care doesn’t need to be expensive, either. Some fantastic, affordable clinics will help you care for your pet without breaking the bank. For example, you could take your pet along to one of the best walkin vets Allen TX, which will ensure your pet receives medical attention whenever they need it.
4. Serving the Wrong Foods
You might not think twice about feeding your dog or cat scraps from dinner, but it could cause them more harm than good. Various human foods are toxic to animals, which you must avoid.
For example, cats should not eat:
- Raw eggs
- Meat trimmings
- Caffeinated drinks
- Chocolate
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Cheese
- Onions
- Garlic
Dogs also shouldn’t eat the above items, as well as:
- Macadamia nuts
- Corn on the cob
- Avocado
- Cooked bones
If you do provide your pet with these items, they’ll likely feel sick, and it could even kill them. If in doubt, talk to your vet.
5. Choosing a Dog with the Wrong Energy Level
If you’re a physically active person, an energetic dog might match your lifestyle, and a low-energy pet might not suit your needs. However, if you don’t like to explore the outdoors much each day, you might struggle to keep up with a dog that’s bursting with energy. Research a breed before you bring it home to avoid making a big mistake.