Responsible ownership
Bringing an animal into your life is a commitment of years. Before requesting information, go over these questions with everyone in your household.
Long-term commitment
Many dogs live for more than ten years, and some birds and tortoises can live for decades. Think about how your life will change over that time.
Recurring costs
Food, vet, vaccinations, insurance if applicable, equipment, enclosure, boarding or a sitter on holiday. Work out a monthly budget and a margin for the unexpected.
Daily time
Walks, play, cleaning, socialisation and training. An animal should not spend most of the day alone.
Home and space
Check the space available, whether your tenancy agreement or your community allows it, and whether the environment is safe for the species.
A regular vet
Find a vet before the animal arrives. For birds and reptiles, preferably a practice with experience in exotics.
Living together
Children, older people, allergies and other animals. Living together has to be prepared and supervised.
Travel and emergencies
Who will look after the animal if you travel or fall ill? Have a back-up plan.
Exotic species
They require a specific enclosure, temperature, humidity, lighting and diet, and some have legal restrictions or CITES documentation.
Legality
Animal protection rules vary by country and region. Find out about the identification, registration and obligations that apply to you.
Abandonment
If things do not turn out as you expected, there are responsible alternatives. Talk to us before making any decision.
Take the indicative assessment
It will help you identify the points worth reviewing before you get in touch.