by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: June 22, 2009

So, you see that cute little baby animal and think that you are ready to take it home and love it for life? It happens all the time, so don't feel alone. Baby animals are cute and cuddly looking, inspiring us to be attracted to them and want to take them home with us. That is exactly why our animal shelters are filling up so quickly. We forget that when we are falling in love with the cute and cuddly little ones, they will grow into adult animals who look different and have needs that the responsible pet owner will take care of.

Responsible pet ownership is about far more than providing food and water with the occasional pat on the head. Animals, like humans, have far more needs than that. They have medical and dental needs, companionship needs, exercise needs, training needs, and a whole assortment of others. These take both time and money. If you want the baby animal, be prepared to provide for these needs as well because they will be there and the animal will depend on you to meet them.

First, you should understand that vet bills aren't all that cheap! Every animal will bring one with it because even if you get the most healthy animal that never experiences an unexpected ailment or accident, they will still need their shots and regular check-ups. Animals also need to have their dental exams done at least yearly. Bad teeth can lead to a host of other problems, especially if there is infection involved. If something happens that you didn't expect, you should be prepared for a more substantial cost. If not, you will probably still have the cost to humanely euthanize the animal, which has an emotional price tag, as well.

Keeping your pet healthy is about more than the occasional visit to their veterinarian. Pets need exercise to thrive. They need to get outdoors and run around. They need to play and take walks with you. They need to jump and have fun! Animals have been domesticated so that we could enjoy them in our lives, but you should remember that they are still animals first and foremost. They can't just be cooped up in a cage, pen, or house for their lives.

Animals who have become pets in our homes need our companionship. They no longer have herds, gaggles, and packs to associate with. You are their friend and they will need you to spend time with them and share your love with them. You will have to spend time petting them and showing them affection. Your pet may need you to assist them with their grooming needs which can be an especially bonding time for you both.

Your pet will appreciate being well-trained and socialized because this will allow them to have many people that love them and treat them kindly. You may be able to train them yourself or you may need to take them to formal classes. Either way, it is your responsibility to ensure that your animal has good manners and can be trusted around other people and pets.

Pets are a great joy to those who love them, but they are also a responsibility to their owners. They need proper care and companionship in order to truly live lives of happiness. When this is provided to them, they will become some of the greatest friends you will ever have. If it is not, they will be nothing but another chore, and an unhappy one at that. Be sure that you consider these things before you fall head over heels for the cute and cuddly!

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