You should do this before considering adopting/purchasing your animal and prior to bringing them home so that you are well informed about the species-specific needs of your companion animal and so you’re ready to take good care of them. When you are considering adding a companion animal to your family, it is your responsibility, to thoroughly research the basic requirements of your chosen animal. For example, dogs with exaggerated features (such as brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs) usually require specialised veterinary care to help them to be more comfortable and to improve their quality of life this can be expensive. Remember that animals can be an expensive addition to the family. The costs associated with your companion animal will vary depending on the type of animal and breed you choose. If an emergency or accident occurs, you will also need to ensure you can pay for any emergency veterinary treatment required. In addition, you will need to be prepared to pay for ongoing costs associated with food, worming, annual health checks, vet bills, training, care when you are away, toys and bedding, and more for the life of your animal. Upfront costs for cats and dogs include vaccination, microchipping and desexing, although animal adopted from shelters will already be vaccinated, microchipped and desexed. There are many costs involved with having a companion animal. While puppies and kittens are irresistibly adorable, you will need to be prepared to provide for an adult animal too and, in the case of some dogs, a much larger animal with considerable exercise requirements and a sizeable appetite. The average lifespan of dogs and cats is around 12 years, with some dogs and cats living until 15 or even 20 years of age, so it’s a long-term commitment. Before you make the decision to become to bring an animal into your family, ask yourself the following questions: Am I prepared to care for the animal for their whole life? RSPCA shelters receive thousands of unwanted and abandoned animals each year and these may be the result of an ill-considered decision. RSPCA Australia recommends that you take the time to research the species or breed/crossbreed you are adopting/purchasing well before bringing them home, so that you are positive your choice of companion animal will be appropriate for your lifestyle and you are well prepared for their arrival.Īdding a companion animal to your family should never be an impulsive decision. Before acquiring any new companion animal, it is absolutely essential to thoroughly research the care the animal will need to ensure you have the capacity to meet the physiological, behavioural and social needs of the animal. You will be committed to providing for all the requirements of your animal – food, exercise, housing, grooming and veterinary care. While having an animal as part of your family can be extremely rewarding, it is important to remember that caring for an animal is also a huge responsibility. Note: A companion animal is an animal that provides companionship to humans, also known as a pet.įor many Australians a companion animal is an important part of the family.
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