Owning a pet is a big responsibility. While many prospective pet owners think they understand what they are getting themselves into prior to adopting an animal, it is often difficult for anyone inexperienced in caring for a pet to foresee the full range of potential problems they may face in the future. Each February, Responsible Pet Owners Month reminds pet owners that responsible ownership is critically important for developing ethical and enjoyable relationships with furry, scaly, and feathery companions. Here are a few key points to remember if you are looking to adopt in the near future.

Always Do Your Research First

Often, the difference between a good and bad pet owner is the amount of research he or she is willing to do. Thousands of books have been written on pet care, including many publications that are both recent and highly regarded. Take advantage of this. Proper research will give you a good idea of how to train and feed your pet so you can start planning your schedule before you even begin visiting shelters or breeders.

Make an Honest Assessment of Yourself

If your research leads you to the conclusion that you might not be the best pet owner at the present moment, don't fight your instinct. Giving a dog or cat the opportunity to find a responsible owner is often much kinder in the long run than trying to care for a pet you cannot devote enough time or energy to. Further, by turning down ownership now, you are giving yourself the opportunity to adopt later when you are better prepared. Although it can be extremely hard to be honest about your own abilities, doing so is also extremely important.

Set Aside Time and Space

Pets require time above all else. It is simply not possible to raise a puppy properly if you plan to leave him or her alone while you commute to a job for 40 or more hours a week. The developmental damage of neglect may not be as visible in a puppy as it might be in a child, but the effect is the same; your puppy will struggle to learn basic social skills that would have been effortless if acquired early in life. By setting aside dedicated time for training and socialization, you are investing in your companion's future. An obedient dog that plays well with others is unlikely to require expensive training and is likely to remain with your family for its entire life.

Be Prepared to Pay for Veterinary Care

Though healthy pets can cost very little annually, an ill or injured pet can strain even the most padded bank accounts. This is why you should have a plan in place to pay for emergency vet bills. If you are otherwise prepared for adoption but do not have thousands to spare for an emergency, consider purchasing pet insurance. A good insurance plan can cost you little and can be paid monthly, semiannually, or annually. Unlike human insurance, pet insurance allows you to freely choose your providers.

There are many ways to reserve an appropriate amount of time and energy to your pet. Researching responsible pet ownership prior to adoption, however, is the best way to do so proactively. This February take some time to read up on training, socialization, and nutrition. If you live in the Honolulu area and need a vet for your new adoption, contact Pet Hospitals of Hawaii today.