The 9 important things to know before adopting a rescue pet, according to a vet.

There's a lot to know about caring for a pet. 

No matter how many hours we spend hunched over our laptops, asking Google every possible question we can think of when it comes to getting a new pet, there is no better resource than the experts themselves. 

That's why Dr Claire Jenkins, veterinarian for over 18 years, wanted to make it as easy as possible for current and hopeful pet owners. In 2015, Dr Jenkins founded VetChat – a service that connects pet carers to trusted Aussie vets online and within minutes, 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

So it's safe to say she knows a lot about what we need to know before we we adopt a pet – that's why we asked her the key things we should know before adding another member to our families. 

Without further ado, here's what Dr Jenkins had to say.

Watch: To Dogs, Our Best Friends. Post continues after video. 

Be honest with yourself about your situation. 

Dr Jenkins acknowledges that it can be easy to get caught up in the novelty of adopting a new pet, so she encourages women to "be honest" about their situations. 

"I would actually love more pets – but the reality is that I would not be able to provide new pets, in addition to what I already have, with what they need," Dr Jenkins explains. "Bringing a pet into your life is no small thing. Every pet is different, and you need to be sure you are able to provide for them emotionally and physically."

She adds: "There is a lot of work involved in caring for a pet – and although the rewards make it all worthwhile, it only works when both the parties' needs are met."

Ask the right questions before adopting a pet.

"Adoption is a lifelong commitment to support that pet to live their best life," Dr Jenkins tells Mamamia. "Learning what you can about their history will help you know if you are the right fit for each other. Because compatibility is crucial."

These are some important questions to ask before jumping in:

1. What’s their back story? How did they come to be up for adoption?

2. What is known of their health history? For example, have they been observed to be itchy? What are their stools like? Have they been vomiting? Do they have sore eyes? Have they had a vet check? What were the findings?

3. How are they with new people, kids and other pets? 

4. What else has been noticed about their behaviour? Are they toilet trained? Are they anxious? Do they bark excessively? Are there any situations where they have shown aggression? Are they handled easily? Do they allow their paws and ears to be checked? 

5. What are their favourite activities or habits? For example, fetch, walking, swimming, chewing (this is an important one to help with the transition to their new home).

6. What commands do they know or respond to? 

7. For dogs, how do they walk on a leash?

And remember, pets with pre-existing health issues still make wonderful companions. All they need is that extra bit of care.

Be ready for a lifestyle change – no matter what your day looks like.

Dr Jenkins says it doesn't matter whether our potential pet has health issues or not, or whether it is young or old – our lifestyles will have to make accommodations for our new furry friend. 

"When we welcome a new pet, our lifestyle and schedule will need to revolve around our pets' needs," she explains. "They cannot provide for themselves, and they rely on us to provide everything. 

"With the right match, your lifestyle will alter and for the better. Physical activity is a daily non-negotiable – you’ll meet more people in your community and just by existing, your pet by will reduce your stress overall."

Adopting puppies and kittens have both advantages and disadvantages.

"There are certain advantages with adopting adult pets," explains Dr Jenkins. "Some have already been trained and are house-ready."

She adds that some could possibly be "more chill". Adult cats or dogs also make it easier for potential adopters to assess if they are the right fit for them. 

However, Dr Jenkins says the disadvantage is that an adult pet could already have some experiences that have shaped anxieties or habits you don't enjoy. 

That's why making sure you are the right fit is so important – and it works both ways. 

Listen to this episode of That's Incredible, a Mamamia podcast just for kids. Post continues after audio. 

Going back into the office? You'll need to be ready to prepare your pet for days without you. 

"Bringing a pet into your life is no small feat," says Dr Jenkins. "Every pet is different and you need to be sure you are able to provide for them emotionally and physically. 

She adds it's crucial to ask ourselves the important questions so we are prepared to support a pet. 

Ask yourself this: 

1. How much space do you have? 

2. How many hours will they be on their own in a day? 

3. What amount of time do you have for daily walking, training, play and grooming? 

4. Should you consider doggy daycare? 

5. What level of costs can you support?

Arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible.

We get it. It's really hard to be the smartest pet owner in the room, but when it comes to our newly adopted pets, it's crucial we understand their needs. 

Dr Jenkins says we should expect an "adjustment period".

"Don’t be surprised if feelings of doubt creep in as to whether you’ve done the right thing," she goes on to say. "That feeling won’t last. Introductions are not easy. But when you are prepared, and knowledgeable, the transition will be as smooth as possible."

It's also important to have some knowledge on your pet's diet, as "switching" their food abruptly "can cause a gastrointestinal upset," warns Dr Jenkins.

And if you don't feel equipped in knowing all the things you feel are important to know about your new companion, don't panic as there are some incredibly valuable resources online, like PetSure’s knowledge hub.  

Which brings us to our next point... 

Who do we go to for ongoing support? 

It's no easy task preparing for a new pet. Sometimes, taking a trip to the vet is not possible, depending on what hour of the day we need support or how grim our wallets are looking.

Luckily for us, we have a valuable resource in VetChat, the accessible support service that connects pet owners to trusted Aussie veterinarians around the clock. 

Yep. That means 24/7 support from the very best experts to fill in all the gaps you need, whenever you need it. 

"Some pet owners speculate and wait while others panic and act too soon," says Dr Jenkins. "But regardless of how quick or complacent we are, we’re all conditioned to go elsewhere. We ask friends and check social media. We consult Dr Google and wait days, even weeks, to see a vet."

But a quick chat with the most helpful source (a qualified veterinarian) is all we need – and it could save us a lot. 

"We know that even the smallest sign of sickness can feel like an emergency, which is why we help you diffuse the situation sooner," Dr Jenkins explains. "We listen closely while you chat, then work together with you to get to the bottom of what’s happening using photos and videos, and provide clear, actionable care."

No question is too big or small – a focus on prevention and early intervention of issues will cause far less financial stress than treating issues that are further down the track. 

The added value of VetChat as well is that there is simply no need to Google search or wait for an appointment to be available at a clinic – instead you can describe the pet's issue on video chat or with photos and learn what needs to be done. 

Whatever pet you get is completely dependent on what YOU believe you are ready for.

Dr Jenkins says the "right" furry companion actually depends on you.

Of course, cats are "little lower" in maintenance, more independent and arguably less expensive whilst dogs are known for requiring more attention, exercise and maintenance. But, no cat or dog is the same.

That's because every animal's behaviour and needs change with their breed. 

"Within the animal type, there are wildly differing characteristics based on the breed as well," Dr Jenkins says. "So understanding the breed or breed mix will help you understand health issues that they may face, cost considerations and requirements for housing, exercise, and grooming."

But if you want a little more guidance towards the "right" answer, Dr Jenkins says a smaller pet (whether that is a cat or a dog) is generally "a wiser choice" for those not in the best financial situation. 

This is because costs actually tend to increase with the size of our pets due to the cost of food, medication and grooming. 

No matter what though, having a pet will cost you. 

It's a wonderful experience having your very own pet, but Dr Jenkins advises women to be aware that the first year costs of bringing home a companion will be expensive. 

On a positive note, pets are generally the most expensive in their first year alone. 

"There are lots of one-off costs that luckily won’t pop up again," she says, "That said, caring for a pet is for life, and there are ongoing costs that you’re up for, day in and day out, for the rest of their lives."

Dr Jenkins adds: "These ongoing costs include grooming, parasite protection, include litter for cats, toys and treats, pet insurance, training, routine vet visits and care."

Now you're armed with all the need-to-know info on adopting a pet, cue endless cuddles and playtime. 

Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your circumstances or needs. Consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to decide pet insurance is right for you. PDS and Target Market Determination available from the relevant partner’s website. Insurance issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed through their Authorised Representatives and distribution partners. VetChat Services Pty Ltd, AR 001299710, is a related company of PetSure and may receive benefits associated with the issue of pet insurance policies administered by PetSure.

Feature Image: Getty/Mamamia.