Before You Unwrap: The True Cost of Pet Ownership
December brings with it a festive air and the joy of gift-giving. As the holiday season approaches, thoughts turn to the perfect gifts for friends and family. Would a pet make the perfect gift?
Before you leap into the world of pet ownership, take a pause! Are you ready for it, or should you think a bit more? Let’s check out what it really means to have a pet before you open the gift and meet your new furry friend!
Are you truly ready for the journey, or is it a decision that requires careful thought and consideration?
Do they really want a pet?
Being a pet owner means embracing lifelong responsibilities! Just because someone loves animals doesn’t mean they’re ready for the commitment that comes with having a pet. Instead, suggest adopting a pet when they feel all set. Also remember that a pet is a new family member and it is a decision that must be made together with one’s family.
Remember these wise words of responsible pet ownership: Only bring a pet into your home when you’re absolutely sure you’re prepared for the commitment. Our goal is to make sure every pet finds a home where they’re not only loved but also cared for throughout their entire lives. It’s all about creating happy homes for our furry friends!
So what can you do instead?
If the idea of pet ownership feels a bit overwhelming right now, there are other ways to make a positive impact on the lives of animals. Volunteer at an animal welfare shelter or become a fosterer, providing temporary care and love to animals in need while they get ready for a permanent home. Your actions can make a significant difference in their lives.
Are they ready for the expenses before welcoming a pet?
Having a pet can be very expensive! The costs go beyond just getting them. Taking good care of your pet means understanding that they won’t be playful and healthy forever. Getting ready involves being financially prepared, having a strong mind, and lots of love.
So what can you do instead?
Instead of diving into the financial commitments of pet ownership, become a hero for shelter animals by raising funds and organising donation drives. Every contribution, big or small, helps ensure that animals in shelters receive the care they need. Simply check in with the animal shelter you would like to help so they can let you know what items they need. Stuff like newspapers, yummy wet food for cats and dogs, rabbit food, and grass hay for our furry friends!
But if you and your family are truly ready to welcome a furriend into your home, remember to adopt instead of purchasing a pet!
This holiday season, let's celebrate the spirit of giving responsibly, whether it's through thoughtful gifts, acts of kindness, or making a difference in the lives of our furry friends. Remember, the true joy of pet ownership comes not just from the initial surprise but from the ongoing love and care we provide to our animal companions.
BY DIBASHINI YENSEGARAN
EDUCATION MANAGER, SPCA
NOVEMBER 2023
References:
FOUR PAWS INTERNATIONAL, “FOUR PAWS INTERNATIONAL,” 6 December 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/companion-animals/adoption/animals-are-not-presents. [Accessed 27 November 2023].
J. Yang, “The hidden costs of pet ownership in Singapore, according to vets and ‘pawrents’,” 10 November 2023. [Online]. Available: https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/living/hidden-cost-pet-ownership-singapore-376766. [Accessed 27 November 2023].