Should you get a pet together? 5 key things to consider

Deciding to adopt a pet together as a couple can be both a thrilling adventure and a serious responsibility. Pets are more than just snuggles and play—they're commitment and it is important to ensure that you are both at the same stage in your commitment. Here are five things to keep in mind before getting a fur baby:

Keeping a pet is a shared responsibility

Pets require constant attention, and this means you both will have to share the responsibility of ensuring they are well taken care of. There are daily responsibilities, such as feeding, walking, grooming, attending vet appointments, and as a couple, you need to agree on each partner's job responsibilities regarding the pet and ensure that the workload feels equal to both individuals. 

If you or your partner feels as though they are carrying all of the weight, that can lead to tension and relationship strain. 

It’s important to schedule a time to discuss your pet's responsibilities and tasks will be handled at home, while also ensuring both partners feel satisfied with the arrangements. You'll take some of the reservoir of tension away while ensuring the pet will get the care it needs. 

Lifestyle compatibility matters (Credit: Freepik)

Lifestyle compatibility matters

Your lifestyle will have the greatest role in determining if pet ownership is compatible at this time. If both of you have busy jobs or travel a lot, you will need to consider how you'll spend your time and know that you are both making your pet's needs a priority. You also need to consider if you will leave your pet alone for long periods of time. 

Pets inherently require interaction from people, and exercise from their owner/carer. 

Now is a good time to assess if your current lifestyle choices will allow you to fulfill a pet's requirements.

 If you and your partner are rarely around town, you will need to consider if there are options related to pet care while not around the house, or if your values related to your lifestyle allow changes to happen towards the needs of a pet.

Understanding the costs of pet ownership

After the financial commitment of a pet comes the true cost of caring for that pet. Not to mention ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and vet bills, there are always unexpected expenses such as emergencies or insurance. 

Before deciding to adopt a pet, please have an honest discussion about how such costs will be arranged. Will you contribute financially as a couple, or is one partner the only one paying for expenses? Knowing what you are financially committing to is essential to avoiding future anxiety.   

Are you both on the same page with your parenting style? (Credit: Freepik)

Are you both on the same page with your parenting style?

Animals are not children, but they do require some level of ‘parenting,’ and you might have differing styles on how to care for your pet. 

Are you both on the same page regarding the animals training, boundaries, and what behavior calls for a reward? 

If one partner is more lenient than the other, it may lead to a contentious relationship. Whether its about discipline, or how much freedom your pet will have, it is vital to have a conversation and work out your pet care philosophies.

Are you both in for a long haul?

Pets can be with you for many years so it is very important to think about the future. Will you both be together in five or ten years? Are you both willing to make that commitment not only for the animal but to each other? 

Owning a pet will take a lot of time, love, and patience, and that patience will only be tested over time. Ask yourself if you are both really in this for the long-run! 

Getting a pet together can enhance your relationship as a couple but only if you have both committed to this responsibility. By covering some of these important topics, you will have made a great place to start a happy and healthy life with your new pet together!

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