Across the globe, people have been staying at home to protect themselves against the COVID-19 pandemic. For some, remaining in one place for an extended period of time can bring out negative feelings. They may feel depressed, anxious, stressed, impatient, or short-tempered, among others. However, as surprising as it may seem, some good can also come out of such a dire situation.

One unexpected outcome observed among people staying at home is an increase in the number of animal adoptions. In the US alone, millions of Americans have decided to adopt or foster animals, creating an increase of 25 percent. 

Why the massive change?

Experts say that sheltering at home and practising social distancing are making people feel isolated. Because most are cut off from family, friends, or colleagues, people are turning to animals for companionship. 

Pounds, animal shelters, and adoption centers welcome the increase in adoption rates, but advise aspiring pet parents to think things through before making that decision. Adopting a pet is a lifelong responsibility that you need to prepare for well. Keep these factors in mind before you start looking for a furry companion.

Consider your current/future situation

It may be tempting to get a pet to keep you company now, while you are stuck at home, but what happens when the quarantine is over? Will you still have the time and energy to fulfill your responsibilities? Besides feeding your pet and potty training him, will you still be able to give him the attention he needs, play with him, and help him get plenty of exercise?

Much like a person, each cat or dog has a unique personality and set of needs. The one you take home with you may require more exercise or additional visits to the vet. Buying food, toys, accessories, dog tags online, and other essentials — all these components can affect the cost of ownership.

Given all the unknown aspects of the quarantine, both now and in the future, there is no way of knowing when things will go back to normal, if ever. Are your finances able to pay for dog food delivery services or any of the other expenses associated with caring for a pet? If you have lost your job or your income is not as stable as it used to be, the price of adoption may put an additional strain on your finances.

Available space and home environment

You may have set your sights on adopting a Malamute puppy because of its appearance. But as a large breed, it won’t stay small and cuddly for very long. Its size will be an issue once it gets older, especially if you live in a tiny apartment.

When adopting a pet, whether it is a dog, cat, or an exotic animal, consider the space available and what you can offer. Avoid using the animal’s looks as your basis. How your dog looks will change over time, but your responsibilities towards him won’t.

Make sure that your home is ideal for caring for an animal. Homes that have a lot of white décor or breakable items are rarely ideal. Pups and kittens can be rambunctious, while senior pets can have accidents.

Think about compatibility

When you adopt a pet, do so with the intent of doing it for the long run. Your pet will be with you 24 hours a day for years to come. It is like adding another member to the family, having a companion that won’t judge you, living with a child that will never grow up, or a combination of these aspects.

As such, think of the adoption process in the same way you would look for a roommate. What type of personality can you get along with, or what characteristics you can tolerate? By taking into account your dog poo or cat’s personality, you can reduce the likelihood that you would need to give up your pet.

Looking for a pet with a personality compatible with yours will be challenging. You won’t have time to get to know the animal personally until much later, possibly weeks or months after you get home. This is where the staff can help give you a hand.

The volunteers know each of their residents like the back of their hand. They can provide you with recommendations based on the information you share with them. Make the most of your interactions to get the best match.

Other residents

Think of the other people and animals living in your home before you adopt a new pet. You may want to think again about taking in larger dogs if you have a baby or young kids. In the case of a roommate, partner, or spouse, check with other residents first if they’re open to adopting a pet.

Your roommate may be allergic to cat fur, or may have asthma or some other respiratory condition. The animal’s hair could get stuck on everything, from furniture to rugs and clothes. Although the strands can be removed with the right tools, your companions may not be too keen on spending so much time cleaning up.

Getting another pet can also be a stressful experience if you already have other pets. Although the chances of getting sick from your pet are low, it is best to be safe. Isolate your new pet for at least 14 days to prevent any disease from spreading to others.

Special needs

If you are planning to adopt an animal with special needs, be prepared to provide extra attention and care. The canine or feline may be recovering from an illness or surgery, or many need to gain/lose weight, or may have behavioural issues. Whatever the case may be, patience and persistence are crucial in gaining your new companion’s trust and love.

Shops and businesses may be closing down due to the coronavirus pandemic, but at the same time, more homes are opening up to foster animals. Adopting any animal is a commendable deed, as it provides a home to those that have none. 

Take note of the factors listed here if you are planning to take on this responsibility. By keeping these things in mind, you can be on your way to finding a furry companion best suited for your home and personality.

AUTHOR BIO

Farah Al-Khojai is the Managing Partner of Pet’s Delight. A passionate entrepreneur, Farah holds a Bsc in Government from the London School of Economics. She is always on the lookout for new opportunities to develop and grow the pet and equestrian retail and wholesale market in the UAE and beyond, and is proud to be at the helm of the first and the largest pet care provider in the market representing world-class brands including Orijen, Applaws, Hunter, Savic, Flamingo, Ruffwear and Rogz.