Owning a pet
Owning a pet involves responsibilities, including feeding and cleaning. If you decide to get a pet, you must remember to:
- feed it a proper diet and fresh water
- have somewhere suitable to live
- keep it with or away from other animals, depending on its needs
- protect it from, and treat it for, illness and injury
- microchip it, if needed, and keep your contact details up to date
Think PETS:
- P – how suitable is the place where you live?
- E – how much exercise can you give your pet?
- T – how much time can you spend with your pet?
- S – can you afford to spend money on your pet?
The PDSA have a quiz on their website that will help you decide if you are ready to own a pet.
Buying a pet
Before you buy a pet, you should consider:
- an animal charity first
- seeing young animals with their mum
- visiting the pet
- your pet's needs
If you have any queries or would like some help with your pets, contact the RSPCA.
