Although the coronavirus pandemic is still an ongoing healthcare crisis, it’s not all negativity that the world is spreading. A curious and heartwarming effect of COVID-19 is the higher rate of pet adoptions. It’s a reasonable response for people who want to experience companionship with a furry friend, especially since most people are stuck alone at home. However, adopting a pet has its challenges and responsibilities, especially for first-time pet owners.

Being a pet owner during the pandemic

People can feel lonely due to the long months of staying at home. Although some quarantine restrictions in certain areas are now more lenient, it’s still a hassle to meet friends and family. For this reason, some people are expanding their home to house a furry roommate to share their home with. Although being a pet owner has its advantages, you must know how different it is to adopt a pet during today’s challenging times.

If you’re planning to be a first-time fur parent during the pandemic, here are three things you need to know:

1. Adopting from shelters is better than buying from a store

By choosing to adopt a pet instead of buying from breeders, pet owners save more money in the long term. The average shelter will only charge you around $250 for an adoption fee. In contrast, a pet store can cost you anything between $1,250 to $4,000. Additionally, purchasing for breeders don’t cover other expenses like veterinary medical exams, mandated vaccinations, and spaying and neutering. When you go to an adoption shelter, it’s most likely that your furry friend has already gone through these procedures.

2. Owning a pet comes with considerable financial responsibilities

Although pet adoption rates are high, there’s also the occurrence of pet owners giving up their pets to shelters willingly. Many owners who cannot handle the pandemic financially end up losing their furry companions to focus on their other essential needs. This is why you must be ready to shoulder the expenses of owning a pet.

Before you consider other expenses like dog training or obedience school, it’s best to focus on their essentials. Even though most adoption centers will handle medical services like deworming and vaccinations, your pets will still need everyday care and attention. Besides buying a leash or getting them a new bed, their food and toiletries should come first. Food is the most expensive cost that you must consider when owning a pet. You can minimize your food-buying expenses if you purchase food packets in bulk.

3. Adoption shelters need to check if you’re a viable pet parent

Like adopting a human child, an adoption shelter won’t just let you take any pet without confirming if you’re a viable owner. Adoption counsellors need to screen you if you’re a possible pet parent. You should prepare yourself to provide certain information, like your housing community’s rules on pets or if you have the means to give them a good life.

Conclusion

There are plenty of uncertain things in the world right now, partly due to COVID-19’s effects. However, it’s a wonderful time to share your home with a furry companion if you can do so. Although you may be stuck at home until things get better, you can make your living space another chance for a pet to find a new home.

Pampering your pet with care doesn’t start and end with your home. At The Paw Resort & Wellness Center, we specialize in grooming, care, and dog training in Brandon, MB. Contact us today, and we’ll ensure that your pet’s comfort is our priority.