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Kids are really funny about pets, they beg and beg for them, and yet after they are grown, most of the time they just get ignored. They want that cute little puppy, but they don't ever think about all the things that go into taking care of a puppy. Unfortunately many grown ups take on pet ownership without considering these things as well.

In addition to all the things that you realize like feeding, watering and taking them out, all the time even in the middle of the night, there are so many more things that puppies need besides just the basics. They need love and attention. Puppies need toys to play with, otherwise they get in trouble and chew on things that they shouldn't. They need those little housebreaking pads, for those just in case moments when you aren't home and they need to go. If you are getting a puppy, then you also should invest in a baby gate. A baby gate is necessary sometimes to keep a puppy from getting into things that they shouldn't or to keep them in one place when you are not home. They need trips to the vet for things like shots, worming, spaying and neutering. During the summertime if you puppy spends time outside you may need to get stuff for flea treatment. Products like Advantage and Frontline are great, but make sure you get them early in the season, or you will have to buy stuff to get fleas out of your house as well. A puppy also needs a good safe place to run and play outside. If you live in an apartment then you may be able to take your dog to a pet park or a regular park, depending on the leash laws in your area.

There are many things that go into responsible pet ownership and if you are considering getting a puppy or kitten then please be sure to consider whether you really can take care of them in the way that they need to be cared for. They are not just something cute to pick up on a whim, they are a lifetime commitment (at least for the pet's lifetime), so don't take it lightly. Think about your lifestyle, and really think about what you have to offer a pet, you may just be better suited with a hamster or a fish, than with a puppy or a kitten.