New York Vet

Getting a New Pet in NY

Children are often very fond of household animals such as dogs, cats, hamsters, and so on, and it's usually only a matter of time before a child asks their parents for a pet that they can call their own. Whether or not they get to have a pet to take care of is up to you as the parent, and you should take a little time away from your child's pleas to debate whether or not you should get them a pet. If you have a significant other helping you run the home, you should definitely get this person's input on the matter. Getting a new pet is much like having a new kid: Pets have to be fed, nurtured, given attention, toys, love, and a place to sleep. While your child will probably refer to their new pet as "my dog" or "my cat," as an adult you know that this pet belongs to the entire family. If your child spends the night at a friend's house, the pet isn't going to just go hungry – you or someone else must feed it. You are basically adopting a new family member that will be around you very often, so it is important to be sure that everyone is onboard with getting a new pet before making a firm decision about whether or not to get one.

Pet Owners Live Longer

Pet owners are known to live longer than most non-pet owners. Their company, love and friendly attention tend to lower our blood pressure and reduce risk of strokes and heart attacks. Their warm company is also sure to liven the home atmosphere and their silliness is bound to make you smile every day. Pet owners are some of the happiest people in the world because they have a loyal friend that gives them unconditional love (and never talk's back!).

Benefits of Getting a Pet

The benefits of getting your child a pet are many, and the primary one is the gift of responsibility. Teaching your child to be friendly with their pet creates empathy in your child while feeding and caring for the pet teaches children responsibility. Pets will also keep your child occupied with healthy, harmless fun for hours, freeing you to attend to other matters undisturbed. If your pet likes to play outside, such as a dog that loves to play catch, your child will get plenty of exercise while playing with their pet.

There are several things to consider when adopting a new family pet, and our New York vet can help you get started. Call now for our advice or continue reading here about different aspects of getting a new pet.

Getting a New Pet? Start Here!