Why do people get pets that they don't know how to care for?

Question

I'm shocked at how many people are on this forum asking basic questions about their pet's health, feeding and maintenance. Why don't people take the time and effort to learn about an animal before making the commitment to own a pet? And if your pet is bleeding or in pain right now - call a vet, please!

Answer 1

i agree 100%!! i hate those questions!! i always do research before getting a pet i've never had before. it amazes me at people who go out on a whim to buy a pet they see at a simple visit to the pet store, bcuz "it was soooo cute".
also i know that if my pet didn't look right, and was bleeding to death, i wouldn't be asking for opinions on yahoo answers, i would be on the phone with my vet!

Answer 2

Drives me nuts too! I don't understand why people would take the time to ask a question here when their animal is hurt. I personally would be on the phone with the vet to figure out what needed to be done. Also, if you don't know anything about your pet DO NOT think about breeding it! Even the stupidest people on the face of the earth try to learn something about being a parent when they are pregnant so why not at least pick a book about the animal you are getting and actually read it!

Answer 3

I think the reason is because people love the idea of a pet. People think a dog is coming home and having someone to run and greet you, jumping up and down and the only reason that the dog happy is that you are home. People want to feel that something depends on them. They often don't take in to account the responsibility that comes with of a pet. I know, it really bothers me too, but the only thing we can do is try to help people before they get a pet to be aware of the things that come with a pet and if they do get one and aren't sure how to care for it properly then help them all we can to make sure that their pet gets the care they need.

Answer 4

I think maybe a lot of them are new at being pet parents. We all were at one point. I never had a cat or a dog while growing up.

I think maybe, if they thought of their pets as children maybe then they would do better. If your child is sick or hurt, you take them to the doctor. People need to understand that pets need vets, same as people need doctors.

It's hard, but we have to be patient with them. They have to learn, the same as we did. At least they are on here asking questions, rather than doing nothing at all!

Answer 5

I agree! I am an avid hedgehog owner and am shocked by how many people think they should run out, buy a hedgie and toss it to their kids. Once the children get bored they 'get rid' of the animal.

You should research any pets before buying them. Dogs need walks and obedience training. If you don't give your animal what they need they will act out and you will regret buying the pet. Buy an animal only for keeps and be sure you can give them what they need (time, money and patience) BEFORE you purchase them.

Answer 6

Because they think that they are "cute" or that it will make them more interesting people to have an unusual animal. Often people don't bother to think things through as far as "care and maintenance". It is a shame, since the animals are the ones that will suffer for it.

Answer 7

How many people have kids and not know what to do for them? Basic law of stupidity, stupid people are plentiful and unfortunately they have kids and pets....

Answer 8

Because people just like to ask instead of find out their ownselves

Answer 9

people are spontaneous. we don't always think clearly or through all the scenarios. it is too bad.

Answer 10

I think it is beacuse they are lonely.