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Do You Have a No-Pets Clause?
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Most rental agreement no-pets clauses apply only to
dogs and cats; birds or small mammals may be acceptable. If you want
a dog or cat but your lease or condominium association rules prohibit
them, ask that the no-pets clause be waived or negotiated. Outline
your plan to care for your pet, to adapt to your living environment,
and to meet your landlord's expectations. Assure your association
leaders that you are a responsible pet owner who is aware of the importance
of a well-behaved animal and a clean environment. Furnish references
from previous landlords or neighbors. Agree in writing to pay a refundable
deposit or a small monthly surcharge.
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How Much Will Your Pet Cost?
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The purchase price of an animal varies greatly. All
pets need food and shelter, and most should have regular visits to
a veterinarian for health checkups and vaccinations. Depending on
the type of animal you choose, other cost considerations include emergency
medical treatment, grooming, boarding, licensing, obedience training,
and accessories. Pet health insurance for unexpected illnesses or
injuries is available in many states. It's also a good idea to call
your local vet as well as shelters and your humane society to see
if animals they have available fit your search criteria.
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What If a Pet Doesn't Fit
Your Lifestyle?
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After discussing the role a pet will play in your life
and talking with knowledgeable people, you may conclude that your
first choice for a pet is not appropriate, so be flexible. Your veterinarian
may suggest other companion animals whose needs more closely match
your own.
You can still enjoy the animals around you if a pet does not fit into
your present lifestyle. Try putting a bird feeder outside your window
or becoming an active member of a local zoological society. Volunteer
at a humane society or animal shelter. Consider a pet when your circumstances
change.
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Veterinarians and Other Community
Resources
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When your family decides it's time to actually look
for a pet, each person should participate in the selection process.
A good place to start is a family consultation with a veterinarian
to determine the compatibility of your needs with those of the pet
being considered. Veterinarians can offer expert advice on the physical
needs, health, and behavioral characteristics of particular animals,
and can direct you to other resources.
Other good sources of guidance and literature on pets include public
libraries, humane societies, animal shelters, animal control agencies,
breeders, pet stores, obedience classes, and local kennel, cat, and
bird clubs. Dog and cat shows offer the advantage of comparing many
breeds at one time.
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A Check-up for Your New Companion
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The neighbor, breeder, shelter, or pet store where
you obtain your pet should allow you to have the animal examined by
a veterinarian and to return it within an agreed-upon time if the
animal is unhealthy. Do this as soon as possible, before you become
emotionally attached to the animal.
Your veterinarian is best qualified to assure you that your new friend
is healthy and to administer the necessary vaccinations. At the same
time, you can discuss proper nutrition and feeding, surgical sterilization,
other preventive health measures, and grooming needs.
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Prepare Your Home for Your
Pet's Arrival
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Before bringing a pet into your home, prepare a special
place for it to eat and sleep. At first, try to maintain the animal's
daily schedule for play, eating, and elimination. Decide where you
will exercise your pet. Obtain any necessary accessories (such as
collar and ID tag, leash, scratching post, litter box, crate, bird
cage, etc.) before you bring your pet home. You should pet-proof your
home just as you would childproof your home to avoid accidents. Harmful
cleansers, plants, electrical cords, and breakable objects should
be removed from potential contact with your pet. What will you do
with your pet during long absences? Feeding, exercise, grooming, and
play are daily time commitments that must be considered in caring
for a healthy, happy pet.
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Featured Books & Stories
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