When should we get Pets, and who can handle them, and who can't. It's always been a known fact, that, growing up, at some point in time, we all asked our parents for some sort of pet.
First thing that came to mind was a dog, and if that didn't fly, well, "can we at least get a cat"? Why was that lol. As kids, we all ended up with some gold fish at some point in time, and no sooner did we get them home, after a week or two they died. Down the toilet bowl they went. Then you either upgraded to some fancy exotic fish, or your dad took the damn fishbowl and used it to store screws and nails. Didn't dare ask for another fish, after one or two died. Just wasn't happening. Although shortly after, my younger brother brought home a beautiful exotic bird, which he trained to fly in and out of his cage onto his shoulders. Well Dad thought he'd do the same and tried it outside one day, and well lets just say, "birds of a feather , flock together ". He bolted.
So we started with fish as a pet, and moved onto the parent manipulation to get a cat. Well, we brought one home. For two days our parents didn't talk to us. Dad was happy and accepted our cat Felix as his own, and Mom continued to hate it. It's funny though, over time, growing up with European parents, how warm and fuzzy they ended up over time, liking them. The dog was definitely a NO ! But that being said, we managed to receive stuffed ones at Christmas, that either walked, barked, or even talked. There whole take on pets was this. They had them in Italy, and they all lived outside. Many dogs, many cats, all wild by nature and they fed them pasta and whatever meat was left. That was the extent of their "so called" pets.
As we started our own families, we modernized and got the pets. Again, pressure from our children. So we break down and get them, and what happens, after several months, or some a year or so, these pets end up being more than family, they become our "second children". The kids grow up, and become teens, and young adults, and have a "social life", because as parents, we don't, and these pets are now ours. Well we do have a life, but some how we manage to worry about the pets more than they do. Funny how the tables turn.
In layman terms, "WTF happened". (LOL) I can't say that I don't love animals, because from an early age, I knew I did. Even thought of being a Vet, but thought of having to put an animal down frightened me. Thankfully, my older brothers that got married before me, got dogs, and I was in heaven. But it wasn't the same. Now being well into my "golden years", (LOL) I have found them to be great company. With the kids finally settling down, and moving onto their careers, and buying homes, and getting married. It really has been great having a dog, cat and well, a hamster apparently too !
It's amazing how these fine furry friends cling to your ever being, and know how to play your heart strings. We first get them, and ban them from certain rooms, jumping onto the couches, and onto our beds. It doesn't take them long to win us over, and now they end up sleeping in our beds 24/7. Well I know my black knight does, as a black lab shepherd/collie. He's like having a built in furnace on your bed when your feeling cold. Or the wee breeds snuggling under the blankets, no other feeling. They really learn the routine of the household quick enough.
Cats and dogs alike, are amazing pets to have. I can't say i'm big on reptiles, or lizards, or birds for that matter, but i'm sure many have them. The thing you have to consider though, as young parents, is when is a good time to get a pet. Is it good when the babies are small, and they get used to them, and grow up with them. Is it best when they're older and can take responsibility and walk them and feed them etc.
It's a tough call. There is much to consider. The work schedules, and how will it work, the financial aspect of it all, shots, yearly vaccines, food etc.
Most of us get so intrigued and pressured even by friends. We end up seeing adoptable animals from the rescue centers, and different Community SPCA's etc. Or we see breeders advertise each and every litter, and you fall in love with these kittens and wee puppies.
Then there's the research involved in the breed. What kind to get. Pure Bred, or mixed, or mutts, etc. It's a mind boggling situation when it's time to purchase or adopt a pet of any kind. Aquariums for instance, can be overwhelmingly expensive, and much maintenance involved in keeping them. A ton of work for sure. I've seen many beautiful ones, built right into people's hallways in the walls, and they are quite stunning and relaxing to see.
The decision to get a pet is definitely life changing. Many considerations also, as to whom will watch your pet, when you go away, or have to leave it for more than a day. Cats are quite self sufficient in this area, but dogs not so much. And then, can you trust Kennels or do you prefer to leave him/her with family and/or friends.
The size of dog for example, depending on your home, or apartment, brings questions about the breed you wish to purchase. Having a big yard, and great size property is wonderful for larger breed dogs, so they have room to roam.
So before you make such a huge decision, and it is one. No kidding aside, as big a decision as buying a house, i'm sorry. You're talking about bringing another family member into your household. A pet that will bring many years of memories and love and happiness to you, your children, your parents, whoever it is you reside or live with. Do not take it lightly. Some of us develop a love for animals, were almost like dog whisperers. Or Cat. And that's fine too. Some cat lovers an have up to 3 - 5 cats in their homes at any given time. Blessings to a happy home is what i say. They can take a bad day and turn into something calming and soothing. I know my dog waits in anticipation for me to walk through the door, and there is honestly such a good feeling with that, like an instant hug.
Do your homework, research it all out. Pros and cons list is always good. Make the right decision and choice, and pick a pet you can handle, and will grow with you and your family or household. Be it a piglet, dog, cat, parrot, fishes, or reptiles, think it all through, and be happy with your choice. And please, if you've made the wrong decision, don't abandon your pets. Call a local shelter, or advertise, and let that pet have a good home elsewhere.
Snuggle and have fun with your pets and give them all the respect, love and happiness you give to others. After all, they are more human than mankind. And there love is unconditional.
Love you all Miss "B"..... You are Welcome to leave your pet pics in the comments xo xo
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