Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates’
Blog

If you and your partner are considering adding a wonderful new pet to your household, we understand how excited you must feel. This is a major milestone in most relationships, with the addition of a lovable pet and the shared responsibility of caring for them. 

If you are asking the question, “should I adopt a pet with my partner”, you have come to the right place! There are many good questions to ask yourself and your significant other.

The team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates is here to help you navigate this meaningful and important commitment. Our hope is to assist you in making an informed decision for the best possible outcome for all.

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Pet with Your Partner

Owning a pet is more than just giving them a lot of love. There are a tremendous amount of things to consider, so that you can be better pet owners for your new friend. Adopting is something that is encouraged, but should never be taken lightly since you are dealing with a living being who may live up to 20 years (or more). 

Some integral considerations before you adopt include the following.

1. Do we have time? Time comes at a premium for most busy couples, so it is essential to determine how much time you have for a new pet. Pets need lots of time and attention, especially when they require housetraining, as well as time for exercise, meals, grooming, and so on.
   
2. Have we decided on the type of pet? Arguments ensue if you both are at odds with what species of animal to adopt. Consider the size of your place, the longevity of your pet, desired personality and temperament, and other factors to agree upon the pet that suits you both. Don’t get in a rush. It is important to come to an agreement before diving in.
   
3. Are the responsibilities of daily care divied up? Discuss the daily pet chores list and divy them up, or make days that you take on the tasks while other days are left to your partner. Realistically determine how much time is needed to really care for your special new pet.
   
4. What’s your plan for sharing cost? Cost is a huge factor in agreeing to take on pet ownership. Look into what you might expect annually for necessary pet care, like annual examinations and vaccines, pet supplies, food, treats, and so forth. Get a sense of how much your particular pet costs and then determine how you can manage the shared responsibility annually.
   
5. Have you agreed on the house rules? This is another point of contention between some couples. Determine if your pet can sleep on the bed, be on furniture, etc. and come to an agreement. It is confusing for a pet to be torn between two people’s ideas of household rules, so make sure you are both on the same page.
   
6. What happens if you break up? This is an unfortunate and difficult conversation to have, but if you take on the responsibility of a lifelong commitment, it is necessary. In some cases, creating a legal document that illustrates both of your desires when it comes to shared custody is advised. Ultimately, you both need to be comfortable with whatever path you choose in jointly caring for your best fur friend. 

Should We Adopt a Pet Together?

If you and your partner are considering pet adoption jointly, this is an amazing time. We can definitely understand your excitement when you choose to adopt a pet together. If we can answer any questions you might have, we are here for you. Please contact us!

Pets are family. Studies show that at least 70% of us agree with that statement. Many of us would love to have as many pets as we can, saving them from a life in the shelter. It’s easy to remember that special moment when you met the furry love of your life, and it can be hard to say no when you’re an animal lover. 

But is there a limit to how many pets a person can care for? Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates explores the line between garden variety pet owners, benevolent rescuer, and out of control animal accumulators. 

Affectionately termed a mutt, a mongrel, or a Heinz-57 (because they have a little of everything), a dog of mixed breed is definitely not a lesser kind of dog. A mutt can be just as smart, loving, and beautiful as a purebred dog. And what’s more, he’s got a unique look all his own.

Still, some people believe that a purebred dog has a certain allure that no mutt can ever compare with. Let’s see if we can challenge that assumption with our best reasons why adopting a mutt is a great idea.