4 Ways To Have A Quality Relationship With Animals

***This post is a collaboration and may contain affiliate links. Having a pet in your life is one of the most fulfilling and also challenging things you can do. They bring us so much love but can be a handful at times. It is because of this potential turbulence, you should consider pros and cons seriously before making any commitments. I believe that pets have a purpose in our lives, just as people do. This concept enables me to take the good with the bad and commit to long-term relationships with them. There are so many positive reasons to consider becoming a fur mommy. I do, however, understand that isn’t always possible for everyone. Here are 4 ways to have a quality relationship with animals.

Having a pet in your life is one of the most fulfilling and also challenging things you can do. They bring us so much love but can be a handful at times. It is because of this potential turbulence, you should consider pros and cons seriously before making any commitments. I believe that pets have a purpose in our lives, just as people do. This concept enables me to take the good with the bad and commit to long-term relationships with them. There are so many positive reasons to consider becoming a fur mommy. I do, however, understand that isn’t always possible for everyone. Here are 4 ways to have a quality relationship with animals.

Have a Quality Relationship with Animals #1: Adopt a Pet

First and foremost, the easiest way to bring an animal into your life and develop a quality relationship is to adopt one. Although a lot of people still choose to go to breeders or pet stores, it’s definitely more ethical and kind to adopt a pet from an animal shelter. It’s giving these abandoned animals a second chance at having a happy life. Furthermore, the animal will bring something beautiful to your life as well. I presently have two rescue dogs (pictured left: Cami and Connor) that I couldn’t live without!

If you’re becoming a fur mommy for the first time, it’s important to make sure that you prepare your home carefully. Think about all the prep you do when you have a baby or young children in the home. Dogs and cats are naturally curious and mischievous, too, and they will get into things.

Make sure all your toxic products and medications are locked away – cats are notorious for jumping up on surfaces and dogs can usually jump higher than you might think that they can! Puppies and kittens love cords and anything that hangs down, as well. 

No matter what type of pet you get, spend plenty of quality time with it. Not only will it help you bond with your new animal friend, but it will also have health benefits for you. Taking care of an animal that relies on you will make you feel happy and connected. Both positive attributes for a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

Have a Quality Relationship with Animals #2: Foster 

If you’ve had dogs or cats for years, have you considered fostering animals? Keep in mind that some dogs and cats have come from traumatic and unpleasant situations. Their temperaments might be a little different from what you’re used to. They need firm, loving care from sympathetic people who really understand animals. If you’re compassionate and patient, this could be a great role for you. (Pictured left: Me and my cat Snowflake)

Have a Quality Relationship with Animals #3: Pursue a Career with Animals

If you love animals and they seem to love you, consider working with them for your job or career. Fortunately, there are many different facets of the animal world on which to build a successful career. If you have what it takes to get through the schooling to become a veterinarian, go for it! If not, that’s OK, there’s so much more out there. Look for jobs working with animal charities and organizations. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience working directly with animals. Many of these types of businesses need quality business women who work in administration, marketing, and sales.  

You could also consider taking a dog grooming course that qualifies you to work as a groomer for another business or for yourself. This type of job or business would give you plenty of time and experience with animals without having full responsibility for them.  

You could also be a dog walker or sitter. Not only would it be great for your fitness level but also a lot of fun! Again, this is a perfect job to have if you want to be around animals but can’t have your own.

Have a Quality Relationship with Animals #4:  Volunteer

Finally, if you don’t want to change your job, consider volunteering at your local animal shelter or clinic. I volunteered at the Humane Society when I was a kid and got lots of one-on-one time with various animals. You will need to have a strong stomach and be able to control your emotions in places like this. The smell can be quite horrible. The hardest thing is knowing that not all the animals make it out alive. But volunteers help keep the animals safe, happy and loved while they are there. So, no matter what, you can make a difference.

If you have any office or accounting skills, you could volunteer to help animal charities and non-profits in an indirect way. You could also help to publicize any charity drives that they’re doing if you usually work in social media, marketing or PR.