It does not take rocket science to understand why you should not adopt a pet if you are not capable of taking care of it. Sounds pretty self explanatory; however, it still happens every single day. Dogs and cats and many other animals are taken home on arbitrary decisions, adequately cared for for about an hour, then like a used toy, they’re forgotten about.

This is more prominent during the holiday season, but there is no bad time to address this issue. Even in the summer, people often have more free time, so they decide they need an animal, up until summer is over and the poor thing is left at home forgotten about.

Obviously, an animal of any kind is a huge responsibility. They should not be used as “lessons” for children because if the child does not meet the challenge, the only result is a neglected pet. Before adopting, you should do plenty of research on the specific animal you plan to adopt and if it will work with your lifestyle.

You should be financially stable enough to care for a pet, willing to make trips for the animal such as the vet, take it on walks if that is beneficially to the animal, know what type of food and basic care they need. Buying a living, breathing being is not an impulse decision. There is planning that needs to be done. And I am sure that you will have a much better experience with your pet if you handle the situation correctly.

Aside from all that, adopting rather than acquiring your animal from a pet store is very important. Pet shops often times buy their animals from mills and breeding companies that do not take care of their animals. They are often more susceptible to diseases and health issues. Please do your part and adopt rather than shop.

While it is great that you are planning on giving an animal a home, please make sure that the home they will be going to will meet their needs and give them a happy, healthy life.

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the GENESIS staff. Email Rayna Minix at [email protected].