There's plenty to consider before adopting a new pet
No one can deny the allure of a puppy or kitten, but before you are tempted by their adorable faces and delightful antics at an animal shelter, be sure you are ready to make the commitment to pet ownership.
And a commitment it is. Cats can live up to 20 years, and dogs typically live at least 10 years, often closer to 15, depending on their breed and size.
Does everyone in the household agree a new pet is a good idea? Your new pet will be a member of the family, so it's best if everyone is on board.
Households with toddlers have additional considerations. Interactions must be monitored to ensure both a new kitten or puppy and the toddler will be safe. A pet's new teeth and toenails are very sharp, and young pets are easily injured by rough handling.
Decide who will be the primary caregiver and talk about the division of responsibilities. Exercising, grooming, feeding, playing, training and vet visits are just a few to discuss.
Can you afford a new pet? There is no doubt pets cost money - quite a bit of it. Pets need food and water and bowls to put them in, beds, brushes, treats and toys, and litter and litter boxes for a kitten, or collars and leashes for a puppy.
There is also the cost of grooming; training and vet visits for spaying or neutering; annual exams and vaccinations; and monthly flea, tick and heartworm medications for puppies.
And then there may be an unexpected illness or injury - just like those that occur with other members of the family. And if you travel, you'll need a place to board your pet or someone to take care of it.
The amount of time and energy you have should also guide your choice. Kittens may require less time than a new puppy, but they still require time and attention to socialize them.
You may even want to consider getting two kittens from the same litter. They will provide each other with extra exercise and social interaction.
Different breeds of dogs require more training and daily exercise than others, but all puppies and young dogs need more of both. Breeds that will continue to benefit from a daily workout include border collies and Shelties, Australian and German shepherds, and the retrievers and terriers.
Neither a puppy nor a kitten will automatically know the rules of the household. It takes time to teach them. Will he or she be allowed on the couch, bed or counter? Where do they go potty, or how do they ask to go outside? The time spent setting clear boundaries and catching good behavior so it can be rewarded is well worth the effort.
If this is your first pet, choose a veterinarian and make an appointment for a few days after you bring your new pet home. You and your veterinarian will be partners in your pet's health care for the life of your pet, so it is important you feel comfortable with the vet you choose.
Be sure the vet is willing to spend time answering all your questions.
If you already have a pet at home, you have even more to consider. An older cat may not appreciate a high-energy kitten or puppy invading his space. If you already have a dog and are considering getting a new puppy, plan on taking him with you to the animal shelter to be sure they get along.
Even if you have fallen in love with a puppy, if he isn't a good match with your older dog, don't set them both up for failure. Find a better match.
Living with a dog or a cat requires much more time and money than most people expect, but I would guess almost all would say that what their pets give back to them in love and comfort is priceless.
• Diana Stoll is the Practice Manager at Red Barn Animal Hospital with locations in Hampshire and Gilberts. Visit redbarnpetvet.com, or call (847) 683-4788 (Hampshire) or (847) 422-1000 (Gilberts).