Hello animal lovers, today’s chat is about deciding to acquire a pet and all the things you should consider before bringing a furry friend home.

I have never thought that surprising someone with the gift of a pet is a good idea. The romantic notion of a cuddly puppy or kitten with a big bow around their neck sounds like fun, but in reality can be stressful for both the receiver and the pet.

Pets for any reason are a good idea as long as people have considered the requirements and costs associated with the long term care of an animal.

Animals bring a huge amount of enjoyment when they are properly cared for and will give unconditional love in return.

When giving an animal as a gift you must be certain the receiver understands their needs fully and is ready for the commitment involved.

Surprising someone with an animal gift is not a good idea as adding an animal to your home needs careful planning and thought.

If you do want to surprise someone with an animal, start with a photograph of the type of animal you are thinking of, and then have a good thorough discussion about whether you are ready for a new arrival.

When giving animals to children they should be old enough to understand that the animal is not a toy and be able to handle them in a safe manner.

I have two children under two and a very tolerant cat, but I don’t allow the children to pull at her or chase her and I always make sure she has an escape route if she needs it.

Animals and children can live in harmony but it’s down to the parent to make sure that everyone’s needs are met, including the animals.

Children tend to have a short attention span and the initial excitement of a new pet can wear off quickly.

Pets can be great for teaching children responsibility as long as the parent is aware that ultimately it is their responsibility not the child’s. If the child finds other hobbies, the animal must still have all their needs met.

Children should not be the driving force when choosing a pet for your home.

Ultimately the type of animal you come home with should be the parent’s choice after a lot of research and discussion with your veterinarian.

Children tend to not think about the practicalities of owning a pet, more about how cute they are.

As a parent, it would be wise to limit the child’s options to only those pets which are suitable for the family.

I’m sure my little boy would love a pet tarantula, and my little girl a unicorn, but as a loving parent, I know there are more suitable options. Our cat is enough work for now, and she was here before the children.

The purchase price of a dog or cat can vary greatly, but that is nothing compared to the long term costs of the animal.

Once you factor in feeding, toys, litter, veterinary care, spaying or neutering, fencing, holiday care etc, the bills can really mount up. You must take this into consideration when deciding whether to get a pet.

Even a tiny hamster will add to your weekly budget, and needs food, bedding, vet care, water, handling time etc etc. There is no such thing as a free pet.

I’m often asked about pets as gifts in the run up to Christmas. My reply is usually that animals are for life, not for Christmas.

The holiday season is hectic enough without trying to introduce a new pet to the family. A family’s normal routine is changed and there tends to be a lot of coming and going, which will be very unsettling for a new pet.

A better idea would be to wait until things are stable and you can devote a significant amount of time to your new addition.

A new animal, especially a young one, will feel frightened and disorientated in their new home, and will need a gentle calm environment to feel safe.

As I mentioned earlier, give the children a picture and say this is what’s coming in the New Year. They will be just as excited.

So, when deciding on a new furry friend, think carefully if your lifestyle is compatible with owning an animal, and consider the cost and time commitments involved.

Speak with other animal owners and your veterinarian to be sure you can meet all the animals needs.

It is difficult to rehome an adult animal, so it is much better to have thought it through before getting your new pet.

If you would like help choosing the right pet for your family, please contact me at cedartreevets@gmail.com

Dr Lucy Richardson is the owner of CedarTree Vets, a companion animal concierge veterinary service in Bermuda. She graduated in 2005 from Edinburgh University and has worked as a vet in Bermuda since 2006. She is married to Mark and has two beautiful children, Ray and Stella. If you have a topic you would like Dr Richardson to discuss please contact her at cedartreevets@gmail.com or visit her website at www.cedartreevets.com