I love my pets. I value my pets. I think of them as members of the family. When they are sick or injured, I do what I can to ease their pain and help them get better — whether that means a trip to the vet or administering medication or adjusting our daily routine. They are my best friends and constant companions.
I realize that everyone doesn’t feel the same way about their pets.
But it bothers me — a lot — that there are people out there who treat their pets like they are disposable. Planning a move? Too many people just leave their pets behind or dump them off at the nearest shelter. Pet gets hurt? Too many people would rather be rid of the burden than help them heal.
Adopting or buying a pet is a HUGE commitment. This is a living, breathing, feeling thing, and you have chosen to be responsible for its wellbeing. The pet doesn’t choose you, or ask you to take on the burden, or have the ability to say yes or no to the situation. It is your choice. It is your responsibility.
Pets aren’t convenient. They aren’t cheap. When Moose got hit by a car back in June, it cost close to a thousand dollars for his surgery. Yearly exams and vaccinations can cost between fifty and a hundred dollars. Monthly expenses like food, treats, flea prevention, and more can really add up.
If you aren’t willing to spend the money, don’t get a pet.
If you aren’t willing to spend the time and effort, don’t get a pet.
For every person who goes above and beyond when their pet is sick, it seems like there are just as many who think of their pets as objects — not as living things. People who don’t think of the years of responsibility ahead. Some pets live for decades!
As a pet owner, I believe that it is my responsibility to make life as good as possible for my pets… for as long as they’re around. It is my responsibility to make choices that take their health, happiness, and quality of life into account. Should the day come that my dogs are too sick or in too much pain to go on, I will make the choice to let them go. But until then, I will do everything I can to take care of them and let them know that they are loved.