So, you’re thinking about entering into the world of pet parenthood. The thought of having a kitten to cuddle or a puppy to play with is super exciting. However, are you REALLY ready to become a first-time pet owner? Take our quiz to find out just how ready you are.

Becoming a new pet owner is no easy feat. Having a puppy or kitten in your home is almost like bringing home a new baby. There are likely to be sleepless nights, crying, feeding, a demanding routine and the need for lots of walks!

Certainly, if you want to be the best first-time pet owner you can be (AKA a responsible pet parent), it pays to think carefully about things before rushing out and adopting or buying the first cute pet you see.

Think you score a perfect 10 when it comes to your readiness to be a pet parent? Take our quiz to find out (and have a bit of fun)!

QUIZ: Are you ready to become a first-time pet owner?

Simply answer the questions below and keep a tally of how many times you answer ‘Yes’.

1. Ideally, I would prefer to adopt, rather than by, my pet. Do you agree with this statement?

2. Do you feel confident you have the financial security to be able to provide for a new pet (bedding, food, toys, necessities etc, as well as medical expenses if they should arise)?

3. Are you aware of the year-round preventative treatments and important vaccinations your preferred pet will need?

4. Have you looked into pet insurance and weighed up the pros and cons?

5. Have you considered the impact a pet will have on your current lifestyle?

6. Do you feel you’ll be able and willing to set aside time every day to exercise your pet?

7. Have you done your research on the pros and cons of desexing?

8. Are you prepared to make your home and garden (if you have one) pet safe (i.e. you’ll need to check for common pet poisons)?

9. Are you aware of the impact of early socialisation and training on a pet’s behaviour later in life?

10. If you have children, are you ready to teach your kids about the importance of appropriate behaviour around animals?

11. If you live in a multi-person household, does everyone want a pet?

12. Do you believe that getting a pet simply to appease your nagging kids is a REALLY bad idea?

13. Have you thought wisely about whether your home is suited to a pet?

Time to tally up your ‘Yes’ score

So, are you truly ready to be a first-time pet owner? Well, for a start you took our test, which shows you are thinking carefully about your decision. That’s a good start, but how well did you score?

1-4 Yeses: Definitely room for further research

Sure, the idea of bringing home your very own fur baby is exciting. However, you really need to think a little harder about your decision. Becoming a first-time pet parent is a big responsibility; it takes time and effort. You might even need to make some changes to your current lifestyle. It’s worth finding out what these changes are and deciding if you’re really ready and willing to make them.

5-8 Yeses: Not bad, but a little more consideration might be useful

In general, you have a pretty good understanding of what it takes to be a wonderful first-time pet owner. However, there may be a few areas you need to brush up on – such as preventative health perhaps, or why training is important. Spend a little extra time expanding your knowledge and you’re well on your way to pet parenthood!

9-13 Yeses: Perfect first-time pet owner in the making!

Why hello, pet owner extraordinaire! Sounds like you’ve done the hard work (the research) and you’re ready to take the next step towards finding your perfect furry friend. Good on you!

 

Are you a new pet parent? We’d love to hear your tips and stories. (Share in the comments below)

 

 

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