Looking to buy a pet? What you need to know

Did you know that dogs can live up to 15 years? That is a big lifelong commitment, which means it is important to be prepared if you are looking to adopt or purchase a new furry friend.

Before getting a dog, cat or other pet, it’s important to consider what is involved in being a responsible owner and whether you’ll be able to meet all your pet’s needs throughout their lifetime.

Read our Smart Puppy Buyers Guide. It's full of helpful tips and questions to ask when looking for a pet as your companion.

Steps to buying a pet

1. Visit your local RSPCA

If you are looking for a new dog, puppy, cat, kitten or other pet, visiting your local RSPCA or other reputable animal welfare, or rescue organisations is a great first step! The RSPCA always has a range of pets in all shapes and sizes ready to find new homes. Choosing adoption as your first option helps reduce some of your initial pet costs. For a small adoption fee, all RSPCA dogs and cats are already desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, worm and flea treated.

TIP: Did you know that the average dog owner spends about $2,452 on their best mate every year?

2. Research breed related health issues

If you’re looking at a certain breed of dog or cat for a pet, be cautious with breeds that have been bred to look a certain way resulting in exaggerated features. Some pets can have significant welfare issues causing them pain and suffering which is why it’s important to always do your research beforehand. Learn more here on the Love is Blind website.

3. Find a reputable breeder

If your local RSPCA or other rescue organisation does not have the pet you’re looking for, the next step is to find a good breeder. Finding a responsible breeder means better welfare for your pet.

Our comprehensive questions in our Smart Puppy Buyers Guide will help you with what to ask your breeder to make an informed decision and what red fags to look for when buying a pet.

4. Never buy a pet sight unseen

Wherever possible, pets like dogs and cats should be acquired directly from the place where they were born. This minimises stress to the animal and allows prospective owners to see the condition and behaviour of the parents, how the animal has been kept (living conditions), and to learn about their specific needs (including the specific needs of that breed).

5. Training and socialisation

Your local RSPCA or vet can give you more information about what it takes to raise a polite and well-balanced puppy and care for it throughout its lifetime.

• Have you made sure your home is puppy/dog safe?
• Have you organised puppy school and more training for your new companion?

Pet training and socialisation is very important to set your dog up to be the best companion they can be and reducing long-term behavioural issues.

You can also read more about introducing your dog to other dogs and welcoming a new pet into your family and introducing them to your newborn baby.

To read more pet care tips, visit the RSPCA knowledgebase.

6. A pet is for life

Welcoming a pet into your family is a big decision to make and a lifelong commitment. Read more about:

1. Pet costs
2. Pet care
3. Time required for a pet
4. Suitability of your home and lifestyle