4 elements to take into account before adopting a dog

How many people adopt a pet just “because the children ask for it”? Adopting a dog because it's what people "do" or because kids are whining for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. And a pet is a great dream, but it also entails a great responsibility that must be taken care of for 10 or 20 years of life and that not everyone can face.

The fact that you are thinking about adopting a dog from a shelter or association means that you are a responsible and caring person. However, the decision should not be something that is made lightly. Before jumping into the pool you should spend a period of reflection and think about several fundamental questions. Keep reading!

Can you assume the maintenance costs?

Adopting (and keeping) a dog entails a significant financial cost… enough to include its maintenance among the fixed household expenses. Keep in mind that you will have to pay for food, vaccines, leashes, toys, microchips or regular visits to the vet, in addition to other possible surprise expenses that you do not count on at the beginning but that may arise due to accidents or special needs throughout life. of the little one.

Therefore, it is important that before taking the step you sit down and do the math. Evaluate if you have the financial solvency to be able to take care of one more member for several years and, if you don't know what you're facing, don't hesitate to ask professionals to guide you.

Do you have a suitable space for a new family member?

Just as people usually have their own spaces to eat, sleep or rest inside the house, pets also need to have their own place that they identify as their space.

Keep in mind that any dog, whether large or small, will need a place to sleep, another to eat and drink, and even an area to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and exercise (be it a garden or a park). nearby). Think carefully about whether your home is large and suitable enough to receive a furry companion and care for him during the time he lives with you.

Will you have enough time to take care of a pet?

No matter how independent some dogs may seem, they are social beings and need to spend time with their owners. The moment a little one enters the doors of your house, you will have to get involved to care for him, feed him, educate him, take him for a walk, take him to exercise or play with him... and that every day of his life.

Before adopting a dog, we recommend that you think about whether you really have the time necessary to spend with it. Take a good look at your schedule and analyze your daily routine to decide if you can take on such responsibility. Lack of time is the first reason for abandoning animals in our country!

And you also have to ask yourself something fundamental: what will you do when you go on a trip? Make sure you're willing to travel with your furry friend (which requires extra planning and financial effort) or have someone who can take care of you while you're gone.

Do your family or roommates agree?

If you share a flat with other people, it is important to check with them if they are willing to welcome a new member into the pack. Not everyone wants to live with a dog or take on the responsibilities that come with it, and asking can reduce many future problems.

Also, if you live alone in a rental apartment, remember to talk to your landlord and your neighbors to find out if there are any limitations or restrictions in this regard in your home or in your building. Not having them can lead to conflicts, and even future abandonment of animals.

That's the end of our list of essential questions! It is true that the list is long and will make you think for several days, but it is important to go through this process to make the right decision in your personal case.

And if you finally get up the courage and decide to adopt a dog, whatever breed it may be, remember to take care of it as one of the family. Respect his space, teach him the rules of the house with love and patience, and take care of him with the best products. We recommend, for example, feeding him with Dibaq Sense , a range of hypoallergenic foods free of grain and gluten, with recipes that help strengthen his immune system. You will love it and it will keep you healthy and active for a long time!