Before you start thinking about what to name your next dog or which breed to choose, consider everything that comes with owning a dog or another pet.
The United States is home to roughly 70 million pet dogs and about 80 million pet cats. That’s a lot of animals, and it helps explain why it seems like nearly everyone has a pet.
Many people who travel in RVs keep pets too — dogs, cats, turtles, and even parrots are common companions on the road. Still, the ASPCA reports that about 7.6 million animals enter shelters each year, and about one-third are surrendered by their owners.
Millions of pets are taken to shelters by the people who once cared for them. Petfinder’s research shows common reasons for surrender include moving, having too many pets, and the high cost of pet care. Alarmingly, the survey also found that 47% of surrendered dogs and 40% of surrendered cats are between five months and three years old. Many pets are given up within a year of being acquired.
Another troubling statistic: 33% of surrendered dogs and 46% of surrendered cats had never been seen by a veterinarian. This reflects how many prospective owners underestimate the time, commitment, and expense involved in responsible pet ownership.
I love animals and have two dogs that are truly part of our family. We include them in many activities, take long hikes with them almost every day, visit the vet annually, and have even handled major medical bills like tumor removal. Still, I see many people bring a pet home without fully considering what it requires, and that lack of planning often leads to surrendering the animal. Each year roughly 2.7 million pets are euthanized in shelters.
If you’re thinking about owning a dog or cat, be realistic about what caring for one means. Pets can be wonderful companions, but they also rely on you for their wellbeing. Consider the points below before deciding to adopt.
Before you think about owning a dog or cat, ask yourself:
Do you have the time for a pet?
All pets need attention, but dogs typically require more time and interaction than other animals. You can’t simply crate a dog all day and expect it to be content. Dogs left alone for long stretches may have accidents indoors, develop destructive behaviors, or suffer from separation anxiety.
Make sure you can dedicate daily time to exercise, play, training, and simply being with your pet. If your schedule keeps you away for most of the day, a dog may not be the right choice.
Are you ready for the responsibility?
Pets are a long-term responsibility. You’ll need reliable care plans for vacations, options for when you’re out for the day, and a commitment to daily routines. There are ongoing costs and hours of care that can’t be shrugged off; your pet’s quality of life depends on you.
Do you realize that one day your pet will no longer be a baby?
The cute puppy or kitten you bring home will grow up. Breeders sometimes misestimate adult size, and small puppies can become much larger dogs than expected. Pets age and change, and adopting solely for the “cute” factor is risky. Consider the next 10 to 20 years of the animal’s life, not just the adorable early months.
Are you prepared for it to be harder to find a rental?
Many landlords restrict pets, especially dogs, which can make finding rental housing more difficult. You may need to search longer, look further away, or pay additional pet fees. Petfinder’s data show that moving challenges contribute to thousands of surrenders each year, so be realistic about the housing implications before adopting.
Can you afford owning a dog or cat?
Pets are expensive beyond just food. Veterinary care, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, emergency treatments, training classes, grooming, supplies, and housing-related costs add up. The average annual cost of owning a dog or cat typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 or more.
If you cannot comfortably cover those expenses alongside your other financial responsibilities, wait to adopt. Financial stress can lead owners to surrender pets, and no animal deserves to be abandoned because of unforeseen bills. Being honest about your finances can prevent needless separations and protect a pet’s future.
Owning a dog or cat can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it requires thoughtful planning, time, and money. Are you prepared to make that commitment for the long term?