Owning a pet should never be taken lightly, rather it is a great responsibility. Animals are not toys, so their possession must be accompanied by a firm commitment to provide them with the maximum possible well-being. Therefore, before making the decision to incorporate a pet into the family, you have to think it over carefully and analyze various factors.
However, this reflection is not always possible. According to data from the Affinity Foundation, 60% of the pets that are given away during Christmas had not been requested by the person who received them. Although it is especially frequent during the Christmas holidays, this situation can occur throughout the year. Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or surprises just because. This unexpected gift can be very exciting at first but, in the long run, we must be aware of all that it implies.
According to the report “He would never do it”, the study on the abandonment and adoption of companion animals prepared in 2022 by the Affinity Foundation, 13.1% of the adopted animals are returned due to behavioral problems of the animal itself, 12, 1% for loss of interest, 6.5% for economic factors and another 2% corresponds to animals adopted during the Christmas period, among other reasons. In this regard, it should be remembered that animal abandonment is not only unethical cruelty, but is also harshly sanctioned in the new Animal Welfare Law.
First of all, you have to dedicate some time to inform yourself in depth and understand all the needs of your new pet. Requirements of the species, its health, food, basic care, if it needs to walk, etc. It will be essential that you go to a veterinarian for an initial assessment of the condition of your new companion, as well as to find out what the necessary follow-up will be from now on.
There they will inform you about vaccinations, deworming and the most appropriate diet, among other factors. For example, a puppy that lacks the initial full vaccination schedule cannot yet go outside, since it is not immune to certain risks.
Adapting your house to make it safe for your pet is another fundamental point, as well as preparing a shelter for them. A bed for your dog or cat, scratching posts for the latter, fish tanks or cages depending on the species of your pet. You will also need leashes, collars, a feeder, a drinker and toys.
On the other hand, the education of your pet must be a priority. You will have to teach him to behave, socialize him properly and make sure that there is a good understanding between the two of you. Of course, attention must also be paid to establishing a close bond between animal and human. For this, moments of pampering will be of great help.
Precisely you also have to dedicate playtime and spend time with him. Not only for your bond, but also so that your pet is properly stimulated both physically and cognitively. Above all, patience and affection will be key during the adaptation process.
