Getting a pet: responsibility and costs

In short: A pet is a long-term commitment. Before getting one, time, home, money and life situation should be checked realistically.

In more detail: Dogs often live over ten years, cats 15 and more, some parrots for decades.

In detail

• Time: Dogs need several hours of attention and exercise daily, cats less, but affection.
• Home: Check the tenancy agreement; pets may require permission.
• Costs: Food, vet, vaccinations, insurance, accessories, tax (dog) and care during holidays.
• Allergies: Test in the family beforehand.
• Animal welfare: From an animal shelter or reputable breeders, not from online bargains.
• Holidays: Arrange care (haustier-gesundheit-impfen-entwurmen-tierarzt).
• Children: Animals are not toys; parents remain responsible.
• Laws: Observe the animal welfare act and regional rules.