Expert Reveals #1 Thing Couples Forget to Consider When Deciding to Co-Parent a Pet

Getting a pet can be a great lifestyle choice for many couples. A dog or cat can bring a new dimension to life that involves caring and sharing. But you should both give pet adoption some careful thought and discuss it before you lavish your love on a four-legged friend - and look at what owning a pet really involves.

“For many couples, getting a pet is a natural extension of their bond,” says Angelo Sorbello from Pet Sprint . “If cohabiting, the move can seem even more natural. Why not share your nest with an animal companion? But it’s a long term commitment, and it can involve a fair amount of work and expense.”

“Couples should consider all this before they head off to the pet shop or animal adoption center, because when you see the pup for you, you’ll probably let your heart make the decision for you!” he says.

How to Prepare for Pet Adoption

Angelo Sorbello advises a long list of things you and your partner need to consider and discuss before getting a pet:

Commitment:

Owning a pet is usually a long term commitment. A dog or cat will likely live longer than 10 years. Will that suit your relationship? Make sure you’re both as committed to the relationship as the other because a pet is for life - not just for Christmas.

Family life:

If you’re planning to start a family together, how will your pet fit in with that? The decision to get a pet should align with your future plans to start a family (or not).

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Clock watching:

You will both need to find the time to care for your new pet. If you both lead busy lives, this can be challenging. For example, puppies shouldn’t be left at home for over 3 hours - will your schedules take that into account?

Financial outlay:

Having a pet can be expensive. You should both consider the costs of things like food, toys, vet bills, adoption fees, and pet care when you are on vacation, as well as training fees. Can you really afford all this? And will you both contribute equally?

Related: Couple's Act of Kindness Rescuing Abandoned Dog in Park is The Sweetest Thing

The right animal :

Think about what sort of pet best suits your lifestyle and the place you live it. Dog – big or small, furry or short-haired – or perhaps a cat? A dog requires a lot more work from both of you than a cat, so consider which pet’s right for you when thinking about your daily schedule.

Pet-proofing:

You’ll need to keep your pet and your home décor safe. Are you both OK with a cat clawing your sofa or favorite chair? If one of you tends to be more messy or relaxed about your home’s appearance than the other, this warrants a chat.

Restrictions:

Where can your pet roam freely? In the kitchen? In your bedroom? Are they allowed to eat your leftovers? Can they sleep in your bed? You’ll need to establish boundaries early on. But how will you enforce them?

Vet advice:

A good vet can help you choose a pet that suits your lifestyle, location, and needs, before you dive in. But vets are expensive. Get to grips with veterinary costs before you welcome your new friend into your world.

Supplies:

Buy pet stuff like collar, leash, ID tags, litter, or a doggy door before you actually get your pet so they can start using them immediately.

Responsibilities:

Having a pet comes with different daily duties - cleaning up after them, taking them out for walks, cleaning their spaces - so make sure you’re both prepared to take on the extra work. Discuss who has to do what - lest it become another chore to argue over.

Training:

Some pet owners are happy to let their pets do what they want, while others might be hoping for something closer to a circus monkey; well-trained, perfectly clean, and able to perform tricks on command. Like with raising a child, you and your partner need to consider whether you’ll see eye to eye on how best to raise your pet.

Where Commitment Meets Rewards

Clearly there’s a fair bit to consider before you commit to the wonderful rewards of pet ownership. So give all that great advice some thought. Make sure you chat with your partner realistically about what owning a pet really involves. Try not to let excitement and emotion rule your decision – however hard that can be!

Angelo Sorbello, CEO of Pet Sprint, commented:

“You and your partner shouldn’t be put off by all these considerations – far from it. The rewards of having a beloved pet in your shared lives can be fantastic, as can caring for another living thing. But you need to make sure parenting strengthens your relationship rather than straining it.

“Talk openly about expectations and responsibilities before getting your pet. Divide tasks fairly and use this shared duty to improve how you work as a team. Remember, caring for a pet together can highlight your relationship dynamics.

“Tackling pet ownership as true partners doesn’t just create a more homely environment for your pet - it nurtures your relationship too. This shared experience can bring you closer, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Once you've prepared properly, you're all set to enjoy the many perks of pet parenting as a couple. Good luck!"

Thanks to PetSprint for this helpful advice!