What to know before adopting a pet
You’ve finally decided that you’re ready to extend your family with a cute little furry addition.
You and the kids have chosen a name, the food’s been bought, and all the toys are ready to be chewed by their new owner.
You’re expecting a companion, an unconditional friend who’ll always do their best to keep you smiling, who’ll curl up at your feet, never judge you and always be excited to see you. What you’re not expecting is all the hard work, dedication, love, care, attention, exercise that is suddenly going to be expected of you, as well as all the extra financial implications.
Play-time, cleaning pet faeces, afternoon walks, homework, and preparing of supper, all in a day’s work. Are you ready?
Juggling your life, your kids and giving a pet a loving home can be both demanding and rewarding.
Wilma Steynbergh, Boksburg SPCA manager, says that adopting a pet is a life-long commitment, and the decision should be based on affordability and not emotions.
“Your pet would need your time, care, sufficient homing requirements including shelter, food and water, medical care which includes regular vaccinations, de-worming and treatment when needed and the rest of the family and the owner of the premises must approve of the pet.”
Wilma adds that a pet expects commitment, love, care and grooming and, even though professional training is not necessary, it is beneficial.
“Before adopting an animal you need to know whether or not you are allergic to it. The only way to know whether or not you are allergic to it other than getting tested by professionals, is to spend time with them.”
The SPCA is also very helpful, and available to help get your pet the appropriate treatments. Animals at the organisation are all waiting for a loving home.
“We at the SPCA vaccinate, de-worm and sterilise all SPCA pets that are homed.”
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