10 Talks You Need to Have with Your Girlfriend Before You Adopt a Pet

We get it. You found the love of your life, you’ve decided that six months is an appropriate amount of time to wait before moving in together, and now that the U-Haul pulled up to your new love castle, obviously it's time to have the “should we adopt a pet?” conversation. Well, duh, you should. There are so many animals out there desperate for your love and cuddles. And there are definitely a few things you’re going to want to talk about before you make that decision and take the trip to your neighborhood shelter.

1. Are you a cat or dog couple? Or both?

There’s obviously really passionate, opinionated people on both sides, so being clear your opinion is critical. I also recommend that you’re on the same page as your partner. If one of you hates cats and one of you loves cats, it's not going to be good.

2. Are you willing to scoop poop with a thin piece of plastic protecting your hand?

Poop scooping is either a really big conversation, or a non-essential one. 

3. Have either of you ever had pets?

If one or both of you have had pets, you’re in for a much more pleasant experience. 

4. Do you or your partner have any pet-oriented concerns?

Sort of a no-brainer, but understanding how your partner really feels is very important. 

5. Are you or your partner allergic?

If so, you should look for a hypoallergenic pet like one of those naked cats or a poodle. 

6. How do you feel about pet hair?

Are you ready to devote your life to constant sweeping, vacuuming and lint rolling? Because it’s happening.

7. Do you want a kitten/puppy or and older babe?

This conversation has a lot to do with how you feel about the situation in shelters. 

8. Do you have enough time for a pet?

Do both of you work a shit ton, and not have enough time for each other, let alone a pet. It’s a good thing to gauge before you end up realizing that your pet is sad and lonely in your apartment.

9. Are you both aware of the gravity of this commitment?

Getting a pet with another person is almost like having a kid. You make a commitment to make your pet feel loved and safe for 12+ years, which means any break ups or problems you have, that pet will experience. So be smart, and don’t make rash decisions. Unless you’re getting an animal for yourself, in which case, by all means. Adopt them all.

10. What will you name your new pet?

HUUUUUUUUUUUGE decision here. Don’t make stupid mistakes. Old man names always slay, as do Harry Potter references, ‘90s television and movie references, and celebrity pet pun names, like Neil Catrick Harris.