Having a Pet - The Pros and Cons

Buying a pet is something that has to be well thought about. Many people rush in only to find that they made the wrong decision afterwards. The choice you make does not only have consequences for your own life but it is also a choice you make for another living being.An unwanted animal is a very unhappy animal, even if it's physical needs are being met. Every year thousands of dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises, hamsters are being thrown out on the streets by their owners because reaching the wrong decision was so easy.Being the considerate and responsible person you are you will want to make sure that you only get a pet if you can give him or her a good life with you.So let's start with the advantages of having a pet before we get to the facts which speak against pet keeping.ProA pet brings happiness and joy into your life.

A pet gives you the opportunity to share your love and caring.

If you are living on your own a pet keeps you company.

Animals give unconditional love - they don't care who you are, what you are or how much you earn.

Pets make great companions for kids, helping them in times of emotional turmoil or trouble as well as educating them about nature and non human beings.

Kids learn how to be more understanding, patient and responsible in their actions when they grow up with a pet.ConOwning a pet means being responsible for another being who depends fully on his caretaker. This responsibility may be experienced as a burden at times.

If you lead a very busy life being responsible for the physical as well as the emotional needs of a pet maybe too much to muster.

Who is going to look after your pet when you go on holidays or, heaven forbid, if you have to go to hospital?

Animals have physical needs just as we do. They need to eat and get rid of waste material. This means that you will have to put up with certain smells in your house, no matter how clean you keep your pet. If you are very house proud or maybe even a bit compulsive when it comes to bacteria, if you like a spotless place to live in, animal hair and dander might not be for you.

Keeping a pet may be quite expensive. You need money to feed the animal and to provide healthcare. Depending on the species this may amount to a considerable sum each month.

I know of many good hearted people who underestimated this important factor only to find themselves in serious debt after the illness of their beloved animal. Just imagine the heartbreak of having a pet put to sleep just because you could not find the money to pay for necessary surgery or treatment!Even so there are many animals on the market which are suitable for all different life styles we must never forget that animals are sentient beings who fully depend on their people.If in the end you do decide to get an animal companion, make sure to pick a healthy specimen in good condition, don' get carried away by his sweet looks and if in doubt, ask your veterinarian.Remember: A pet is for life!

Having