Adopting an animal comes with responsibility.
Consider your circumstances before adopting a pet to avoid common problems.
Wrong Animal
Dogs are more high maintenance than cats, and exotic pets can mean a world of trouble if you don't know care for them. Consider issues like children, lifestyle, living space and personalities before adopting.
Commitment Issues
According to the American Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), adopting a dog is a 10- to 15-year commitment and possibly 20 years for a cat. Make sure you're in it for the long haul.
Behavioral Issues
The ASPCA reports one of the most common reasons pets are returned to shelters after adopting is lack of training. Make sure you have the time to train your companion.
Cost
Numerous small costs associated with adopting a pet include health exams, shots and vaccines, identification tags, and food. The ASPCA has a Pet Care Cost Chart to help you calculate expenses.
Lifestyle Changes
Dogs not only thrive on several hours of company and exercise a day, but they can develop behavioral problems if they don't get it. Make sure your lifestyle can accommodate your pet.
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