Looking for the perfect gift? Skip the techy gadgetry, pricey jewelry, or trendy clothing. Instead, consider giving your loved one the joy of a new furry best friend – after all, nothing is better than the love and affection of a pet!

However, unlike a gaming console or new clothing, pets shouldn’t be treated like a casual addition to your home. If you’re thinking of adding a pet to your family (or someone else’s), here’s what to consider before adopting a new pet for yourself or someone else.

Lifestyle

Not all lifestyles are ideal for a new pet. People with demanding work schedules or busy social lives that cause them to be away from home for long hours may not be ideal for a new pet – particularly a puppy or kitten. Similarly, families with young children or babies might not be a great fit for an older dog or cat; high-energy kids could cause stress and anxiety to senior pets.

Space

While room may not be a major consideration for all pets, it can be a crucial part of a happy and healthy life for others. This is especially true with younger pets and energetic breeds. If a pet requires lots of room and exercise, be sure their future home can accommodate – and that doesn’t always mean a big backyard. Regular walks, daily visits to the dog park, and play dates are ideal options for pet parents living in large cities with small (or non-existent) backyards.

Commitment

Providing the care all pets deserve is a full-time job. Before gifting a new four-legged family member, be sure you or their new parents are committed to offering the love and affection their new four-legged friend needs, including healthcare! In addition to hugs and cuddles, it’s important that new homes are committed to providing life-long veterinary care.

Cost

Being a pet parent is fun, but it can also be expensive. Take time to consider whether adding a pet to the family (or a particular family member’s life) could cause a financial burden. Limited budgets can make caring for a pet difficult, particularly when it comes to providing medical treatment. Without the ability to comfortably afford medical care, pet parents are sometimes faced with heart-breaking decisions.

Existing Pets

While you or your loved one may be ready for a new furry family member, existing pets might not be as excited. Before gifting a four-legged friend, ensure you’ve considered any/all existing pets in the household.

Hard Truth: Many shelters see an increase in returned pets after the holidays, mostly due to the issues outlined above. Before giving a four-legged gift, be sure a new pet is a fit for both the recipient and the dog or cat!

The best gift ever deserves the best protection ever. With coverage from Companion Protect, all pet parents can rest easy knowing their four-legged family is protected from the unexpected accidents, injuries, and illnesses. Fetch a quote today!

Written by Wilson WeaverWILSON WEAVER
Copywriter
Wilson has written for brands in the tech, e-commerce, construction, health, and finance industries. In his free time, he enjoys cooking for friends and family, spoiling his dog-daughter (Penny), painting, and playing music with friends. And speaking of food, his favorite meal is his mom’s pot roast and mashed potatoes!