The pandemic resulted in a huge surge in demand for puppies, as many Brits found themselves with an abundance of spare time during lockdown. However, as lockdown lifted, multiple reports suggested that many people were pretending that dogs they bought during lockdown were strays so that rescue centres would take them off their hands. It’s clear from these reports that quite a few Brits dove straight into dog ownership without thinking it through first. Taking on a dog is a huge responsibility. It’s costly, time-consuming and there are several factors to consider before you commit.
Here, we explore a few important things that you should bear in mind before getting a dog.
Cost
Taking care of a dog can be surprisingly expensive, so it’s crucial to ensure that you have the financial means before you bring one home. Make a list of all the items that you’ll need to give a dog a happy and healthy life and research the cost of each item. For example, you’ll need a bed, some toys and – of course – a regular supply of food, and that’s just the beginning!
Vet bills can quickly add up, so it would also be smart to invest in pet insurance to help cover the cost of keeping your furry friend in good health. In an emergency, rather than opting for a bad credit loan, consider a line of credit to cover emergency vet bills.
Time
When you first get your dog, you’re likely to spend a lot of time training them and working on obedience. However, even when your pooch is completely housetrained and on their best behaviour, you’ll still need to have plenty of time to give to them.
Regular walks are crucial to keep your dog active and give them the chance to explore the outside world. You’ll also need to spend time playing with your dog and giving them lots of attention to help the two of you to bond.
Suppliers
There are a range of different options from which to choose when looking for a pet supplier. You can buy a dog from a breeder or adopt one from your local RSPCA or dog shelter. However, sometimes dogs are imported illegally from other countries, which can put both their welfare and that of members of the public at risk.
The UK government’s guidance on buying a cat or dog will be helpful to read before making any decisions.
Emotional labour
Emotional labour is an important factor to consider before you commit to owning a dog. For example, you should think about whether you will be able to cope if your dog becomes seriously ill or has to be put down. This is particularly important if you have young children, as grief can be difficult for them to understand.
