According to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, working adults head nearly 62 percent of American households. Given that nearly 39 percent of those adults are dog owners and 33 percent are cat owners according to the Humane Society, our good work ethic translates into a lot of pets left home alone.
Multiple surveys have indicated that most dog and cat owners feel guilty about leaving their companion animal alone. So does it make sense to get a pet for your pet? While two pets may entertain and even exercise with one another under the best of circumstances, they are nearly twice as much work and typically twice as expensive. Some people adopt an additional animal in the hope that the new one will calm fears, such as thunderstorm phobia, or sublimate undesirable behaviors, such as barking, in their current pets. In reality, it is more likely that your new pet will mimic the fears and behaviors of your existing pet than eliminate them. In addition, an only pet will usually have a stronger bond with its guardian.
Bringing a well-matched younger animal into your family can rejuvenate an older pet
That said, there are definite advantages in having more than one pet. Most companion animals are highly social creatures. Dogs and cats, through adapting to life with human beings, form strong bonds with those they love and present evidence of loneliness when separated from those loved ones. Having an animal buddy can often ease that loneliness. Knowing that your pet has company can also go a long way toward reducing the guilt many of us feel about not always being able to meet our pets social needs. Additionally, bringing a well-matched younger animal into your family can rejuvenate an older pet.
If you decide to get another pet, matching that animal with your existing one(s) is critical. As a general rule, its best to choose a buddy who is younger than your current pet and of the opposite sex. But please note, individual characteristics always outweigh the norms, so your pet needs to meet any potential new buddy. Preferably on the neutral ground prior to your bringing him or her into your home.
Almost as important as picking the right friend for your pet is managing your own expectations. An acquaintance of mine has two sons several years apart in age. They are currently college roommates and the best of friends, but this wasn’t always the case. When the younger son was 6 months old, my friend was horrified when her older son said, So how much longer does this kid have to stay here? Humor aside, she now tells that story to people looking for a second pet as evidence that sometimes even the best of relationships take time to develop. Don’t assume that your pets will be immediate best friends. Expect some bumps in the road as the relationship develops. Give each animal some time alone as well as time to spend with you. Chances are they will end up being the best of friends!
Whether you’re the owner of one companion animal or many, you know the joy of having a true friend. May we always remember to return the favor.
SOURCE: HEALTY LIVING
