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Choosing a Pet
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Are you
ready?...
Cost: can I afford this?
The obvious cost is food. On average it costs £10 a week
to feed a dog - that's £520 per year excluding treats.
Adult dogs and cats need to be vaccinated yearly. This
can cost between £30 and £60 for a dog. Puppies need a
course of three vaccinations, each costing between £20
and £40. |
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Other costs include:
All dogs need worm and flea treatment every four to six
months - this combined can cost up to £50.
Dogs should be neutered for health and behavioural
reasons - this can cost up to £200.
Pet insurance is vital in this day and age - this can
cost from £10 to £40 a month.
Don't forget to include the cost of boarding your dog at
kennels during holidays.
The above applies to cats too - fees are generally 20%
less. All these figures are approximations. Consult your
vet as costs vary.
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Time: do I have enough of it?
If you work long hours, a dog is not for you. Dogs are
social creatures and should not be left alone for long
periods. Dogs need regular exercise. Depending on the
age and breed of dog, you may need to take your dog for
three walks a day for up to an hour at a time. You
should also devote time to socialising, training,
grooming and playing with your dog on a daily basis.
Cats are more independent than dogs and the average
adult cat can cope far better with being left for some
part of the day. Kittens, however, should not be left
alone for very long.
If you work and the cat is going to be left during the
day, it is important that you commit time in the
evenings to playing with, and mentally stimulating, your
cat. |
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Circumstances: would a dog or cat suit my lifestyle?
You need to consider how a dog or cat will fit in around
other family members particularly children and other
pets or livestock. Work commitments are one of the
biggest considerations, as this will determine how much
time you can devote to your dog or cat.
This question obviously applies to cats as well. Cats
can live even longer than dogs, sometimes up to 20
years, and although they are more independent than dogs
they are very sensitive to their environment and need
the stability and security of a permanent, loving home.
Which Breed?
Every breed has its own particular characteristics and
traits and therefore is suited to different types of
people and lifestyles. Certain types will appeal more
than others but don't allow yourself to be swayed into
acquiring a particular breed simply because of its looks
or image. Sadly a lot of people let their hearts rule
their heads and the end result is that the dog arrives
here. About half of our yearly intake are pure-bred
dogs.
Once you
have made your decision, if you cannot find what you are
looking for at your local rescue centre why not approach
a Breed Rescue? Virtually every breed is represented and
there are rescues scattered all over the UK. Contact The
Kennel Club for details of the nearest Breed Rescue for
the breed you are interested in.
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