Skip to main content

Not Everyone Should Own a Pet

Did you know that nearly 20% of pet owners considered giving up their pets in 2021 due to financial strain, while shelters report a 30% surge in post-pandemic surrenders? Even more surprising, a survey found that 56% of urban pet owners admit their living spaces aren’t ideal for animals, yet they own them anyway.

Not Everyone Should Own a Pet

The truth? Not everyone should own a pet.

While the internet floods us with adorable #PetTok videos, the reality of pet ownership is far more complex. From emotional burnout to ethical dilemmas, many well-intentioned owners unknowingly set themselves and their pets, up for failure.  

The Growing Trend of Pet Regret

Pet ownership has soared, with 68% of U.S. households now including an animal companion. But behind the cuddles lie troubling trends:  

  • 7–20% of adopted pets are returned to shelters, often due to behavioral issues or owner unpreparedness.  
  • 50% of cat owners skip routine vet visits, risking preventable health crises.  
  • Only 22% of dogs and 18% of cats come from shelters, with many impulse-bought pets later abandoned.  

Why? Society romanticizes pet ownership while glossing over its challenges.  

The Hidden Struggles of Pet Ownership  

1. The Time Myth: "I’ll Make It Work" 

The average owner spends just 40 minutes daily actively engaging with their pet. Dogs left alone exhibit stress behaviors like excessive barking and destructive chewing, signs of boredom and anxiety.  

2. The Financial Burden No One Talks About 

Annual pet costs range from $500 to $1,600, but emergencies can spike this to $5,000. Inflation has forced 1 in 5 owners to consider surrender. 

Key question: Could you afford a $3,000 surgery tomorrow?

3. Ethical Dilemmas: Are We Failing Our Pets?

  • Boredom and Confinement: Dogs sleep excessively not because they’re lazy, but because they’re understimulated.  
  • Breeding Exploitation:  French bulldogs, bred for cuteness, suffer chronic health issues.  
  • AI Pets on the Rise: Some opt for robotic companions to avoid responsibility, but critics argue this weakens our empathy for living beings.  

How to Be a Responsible Pet Owner (Or Decide Against It)

Ask Yourself These 5 Questions First:  

  1. Do I have 1–2 hours daily for walks, play, and training?
  2. Can I afford sudden vet bills?  
  3. Is my living space safe and spacious enough? 
  4. Am I prepared for 10–15 years of commitment? 
  5. Would fostering or pet-sitting be a better fit? 

Alternatives to Full Ownership 

  • Foster programs: Test-drive pet care without long-term commitment.  
  • Pet-sharing: Co-own with a friend or neighbor.  
  • Volunteer at shelters: Get your animal fix ethically.  

If You Already Have a Pet:

  • Enrichment toys reduce boredom (e.g., puzzle feeders).  
  • Dog walkers/daycare help if you work long hours.  
  • Routine vet care prevents costly emergencies.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Ownership 

Q: How much time do pets really need?  

A: Dogs require 1–2 hours of active engagement daily, while cats need 30 plus minutes of play. Neglect leads to anxiety and destructive behavior.  

Q: What’s the biggest mistake new pet owners make?

A: Underestimating costs. 20% of owners face financial strain, and many skip vet visits, risking their pet’s health.  

Q: Are AI pets a good alternative? 

A: They offer convenience but lack real companionship. Critics warn they may reduce empathy for living animals.  

Q: How do I know if I shouldn’t own a pet?

A: If you travel frequently, work long hours, or can’t afford emergencies, reconsider. Fostering is a great middle ground.  

Final Thoughts on Pet Ownership

Pets thrive with time, money, and patience, not just affection. Before adopting, ask: Am I giving this animal a good life, or just fulfilling my own desire for companionship?

Visit our website for a free "Pet Readiness Checklist" to make an informed decision.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Best Fish Feed in Nigeria for Catfish: Why Quality Matters

A few months ago, I visited a fish farm run by an ambitious aquapreneur who had high hopes for his homemade fish feed. His pond was large, his vision clear: this feed would cut costs, boost growth, and drive profitability.  But within a week, disaster struck. Fish floated belly-up. Growth stalled. The numbers didn’t add up.   The problem wasn’t the fish. It was the feed.   The catfish were growing exactly as they were fed: poorly. Just as fish can’t flourish on empty calories, a farm can’t succeed on subpar feed. The right nutrition makes the difference between a thriving business and a sinking investment.   In Nigeria’s competitive catfish farming industry, choosing the best feed isn’t just about cost, it’s about protein content, digestibility, floatability, and growth performance. The wrong feed leads to stunted growth, higher mortality, and lost profits. The right one maximizes yield, health, and market value.  In this article, we’ll explore:...
13 comments
Read more

How Much Does It Really Cost to Start a Catfish Farm in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt in 2025?

After the Nigerian government hinted at a possible ban on fish importation , my inbox began to fill with a familiar question from would-be fish farmers in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt: “Can I start a catfish farm now and do it for less?” It’s a timely concern. With import restrictions looming and demand for locally raised fish climbing, 2025 could be a turning point for Nigeria’s aquaculture industry. But while the opportunity is real, the path to profitability depends on where you set up, how lean your operations are, and whether you can balance cost-cutting with quality production. A Market on the Edge of Change Nigeria needs an estimated 3.2 million metric tonnes of fish annually. Yet local production meets barely 30% of that demand. The rest comes from imports mainly mackerel, sardines, and tilapia; worth over ₦500 billion annually. A potential import ban would create an immediate supply gap, and catfish is perfectly positioned to fill it. Already a staple in Nigerian homes and...
Post a Comment
Read more

The 10 Best Pet Sitting Apps of 2025: Compare Costs and Book Instantly

Trying to be a responsible dog owner is rewarding, but it’s also a huge commitment. Finding a last-minute dog walker for a late meeting, a trusted sitter for a vacation, or an affordable trainer can feel overwhelming. You need help that’s reliable, vetted, and available now. That’s where pet sitting apps come in. They connect you with a community of professional dog walkers, sitters, and trainers at the tap of a button. But which app is the right fit for your needs and budget? We’ve broken down the top ten platforms that are leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced technology to provide exceptional care for your pets. We also analyzed hundreds of user reviews, compared features, and tested platforms to bring you the most current information on finding reliable, tech-enhanced pet care. Whether you need occasional dog walking, overnight sitting, or specialized medical care, these apps combine human expertise with technological innovation to ensure your pet receives the best p...
Post a Comment
Read more