The rewards of owning an animal are unparalleled, but so are the responsibilities. Realistically, not everyone has the time, money, or resources to take on the task full-time.
This doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy them at all! There are plenty of ways for both children and adults to benefit from companionship without assuming as much pressure.
From wild animal experience to temporary pet situations, we explore 9 of the best ways to get your animal fix below.
1. Animal Camps
Many zoos, farms, and animal shelters host camps to encourage the younger generations to explore their love of animals. These are great opportunities for your children to learn more while having fun without bringing home a huge responsibility.
While more opportunities open up as kids get off school during summer or spring breaks, keep an eye out for these camps all year long. Some take kids a few hours a day, while others operate as week-long camps.
This is a great way for children to learn about animals while developing their respect for them.
2. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Turn your love for animals into a profitable endeavor by pet sitting or dog walking. Whether you turn it into a career or just a side gig, you literally get paid to take care of them, all without the long-term responsibility.
Sites like care.com and Rover make it easy to get started, but you can also start by offering your services to friends, family, and neighbors.
Keep in mind that taking care of someone’s pet is still a huge responsibility; this may not be for those who want to stick to no-pressure interactions with animals.
3. Borrowing Someone Else’s Pet
For less pressure, consider borrowing someone else’s pet. Take your sister’s dog on a hike or set up an obstacle course for your grandmother’s guinea pigs, and then promptly return them to their owner.
This works best when you’re already familiar with the animal, but sites like BorrowMyDoggy can help you expand your horizons.
4. Therapy Programs
Check to see if there are any animal therapy programs in your area. These programs bring around trained companions to alleviate stress and spread joy. They regularly make appearances at libraries, hospitals, and schools, but may have centers for you to visit as needed.
For example, the Read With Me program from Pet Partners pairs young children with calm animals so they can practice their reading and develop confidence in their skills. Colleges often bring therapy animals on campus around finals week, and your local hospital may schedule a therapy team to visit on certain days.
5. Fostering
If you’re open to a short-term commitment, fostering an animal from your local shelter or rescue can make a world of difference. This opens up a kennel for another animal and provides a more stable environment for your temporary companion to blossom in.
Most shelters or rescues will pay for necessities like food, toys, and vet care, relying on you only to provide a safe home and transportation as needed. You may make a small commitment, but these programs usually understand if something comes up that affects your ability to home the animal.
This is a great way to test-drive pet ownership without making a full commitment, and it can literally save a life.
6. Volunteering at Your Local Shelter or Sanctuary
If you’re unable to open up your home or already have a lot on your plate, you can still volunteer your services at your local animal rescue or sanctuary for:
- Cleaning facilities
- Walking or playing with dogs
- Serving meals
- Socializing animals
Teenagers can use this as an opportunity to fill in community service hours and create connections. Many shelters even allow young children to volunteer with adult supervision.
This is the perfect opportunity to care for such loving animals, even if you cannot bring them into your home.
7. Zoo or Aquarium Memberships
Sometimes visiting the aquarium or zoo is not enough; you want to build deeper connections with animals or learn more about their habits and care.
Zoos, aquariums, and sanctuaries offer benefits for members that may fill this gap. From behind the scenes experiences to hands-on events and exclusive demonstrations, the joys of the membership are well worth the cost.
The best part? The money you spend funnels back into the care of the animals.
8. Animal Shows
Check your local events for animal events. From cat shows to dog shows, rodeo competitions, and expos, these provide an opportunity to learn more about animals and talk to experienced owners.
Animal shows or pet shows usually have several breeds or species in one area, expanding your horizons with real-world interactions.
9. Cat Cafes, Goat Yoga, and More
If you’re looking for a way to unwind while enjoying the company of animals, consider programs like cat cafes or goat yoga. These introduce a furry friend to an otherwise general service, and can be a laid back way to enjoy animals.
Visiting a cat cafe or signing up for a goat yoga class can give you a regular way to work through the stress in your life without assuming the stress of owning either of these animals.
