Things to know before buying a new pet

Are you looking to add a furry friend to your family this year? You're not alone—Australia is a nation of animal lovers, so it's no surprise that many people are proud pet owners.

But, before you go ahead and bring your bundle of furry joy home, there are a few important points to consider. Being a pet owner carries a lot of responsibility and it's up to you how well you rise to the task.

Being well-informed and up to date with the rules around pet ownership in Australia is a good start, and it always helps to do your research before committing to creating a home for that new dog or cat.

Where can you get your pet from?

So you’ve decided to take on the responsibility of a new pet—now you need to decide where you’ll get your new pet from.

If you're looking for a pure bred or pedigree dog or cat, your best bet is to look at registered breeders. Pet shops are another option, but do your homework and research the pet shop as there are some concerns around buying pets from some pet shops due to the way that they’re housed and also where they’re sourced.
Animal shelters such as the RSPCA are always looking for good homes for their pets, and online sellers on pet websites may also be a place to start. If you’re looking online, you’ll need to be vigilant, as there could be pet scams around.

It’s a good idea to visit the animal in its home environment if possible, so you can verify that it's in good condition and has been well cared for by the seller. Before buying, it’s also worth checking that the seller has made sure the pet has had a health check, microchipping, vaccinations, and has been treated for worms. The seller should be able to provide proof of this, so you can rest assured your new pet has been looked after properly.

Once you've made all the necessary preparations, you can look forward to bringing your new pet home to the family.

Preparing for your new pet

Cats and dogs can bring so much joy into a home and doing some preparation will help ensure your pet’s transition into your life is smooth and easy.

For example, you’ll need to meet several on-going costs such as food, on top of the upfront costs for toys and a bed to sleep in. You’ll also need to pet-proof your home so it doesn’t destroy your valuables.

Are you prepared for accidents?

Pets can get up to mischief and we love them for it, but sometimes this can cause accidental injuries or make them sick, which means a trip to the vet. Vet bills can be very expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. If you don’t have money set aside for these unexpected bills, it may be a good idea to consider pet insurance. It can provide cover for both specified accidental injuries and illness, and you can choose different levels of cover. It’s worth looking at your pet insurance options, and Choosi can help you compare, so you can choose the one that fits your needs.  

Posted: 29 Jan 2014