Should You Get A Pet After Divorce?


Life can be lonely after divorce. You may not be ready to date anytime soon, but you may still want some company. Maybe a pet would help?

A dog, cat, bird, or other animal can bring companionship during such a rough time such as a divorce. A dog can help you get exercise and even meet new people. Having a pet to care for will also give you an excuse to get up in the morning.

However, pets are not all fun and games. They require a lot of care and they are a commitment of a decade or longer. Do you really want to be tied down to a pet after being tied down to a failed marriage? Here are some things to consider before deciding to adopt a pet after divorce.

Pros of Getting a Pet

Dogs and other pets offer unconditional love and acceptance, which can be helpful after a divorce. They can offer companionship and emotional support through difficult times and even help with loneliness and emotional trauma—even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Simply petting a dog or cat releases “happy hormones” into the brain, making you feel happy. This can even help reduce the risk of health problems, such as high blood pressure and depression.

A pet can also give you a sense of worthiness. You have something that depends on you, and that can boost your self-esteem, especially if you don’t have kids.

Cons of Getting a Pet

While getting a pet can be exciting, keep in mind that animals are a lot of work, especially dogs. Animals require constant care and this can be difficult when you’re dealing with conflict, such as divorce. When attempting to bring an animal into a chaotic situation, give it a lot of thought. Your lives will change. The pet’s life will change as well. Is that fair to them?

Pets can be costly. An unexpected vet bill can drain your savings. Is this something you want to deal with on top of paying child support and alimony?

Just like a marriage, a pet is a commitment. After dealing with a bad marriage, do you really want to take on another commitment so soon? A divorce is a major life event. Being single is a huge change from being married. Take this time to focus on yourself and your feelings. It’s OK to be selfish in this case. It’s not only for your own good, but the animal’s well-being as well.

Contact a Maryland Family Law Attorney Today

A divorce can be freeing, but it’s a huge change. Are you ready for a pet? Is it a good time or should you wait?

A divorce comes with big changes. Many of these changes will affect you for many years, so think things thoroughly. The Columbia divorce lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can guide you through the divorce process and help you transition to the single life with ease. Schedule a consultation today. Fill out the online form or call (410) 774-5987. We have two offices to serve you.

Resource:

worthy.com/blog/divorce/healing/pet-divorce/

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