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So you want a pet. But have you considered all the life changes that come with it? The hair? The all-around mess? The guilt that comes after denying them a bit of your lunch?

Taiwanese dog and cat owner who goes online by the name of John wants everyone to consider whether bringing an animal into their home won't be too much to handle, so they shared a series of illustrations, depicting life before and after pets. After all, taking care of another living being is quite the responsibility.

However, if you're up for it, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life. "All I can think of after work is to go home knowing [my pets are] waiting for me, feels great and sweet," John wrote.

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#1

Side-by-side illustration showing life changes after getting a pet with a woman alone in bed versus surrounded by cats.

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The artist said his own experience was the main source of inspiration for the series. "I got used to and kinda like all the life changes that happened to me after I got my pets, and I think other animal people will agree with me on this," John told Bored Panda. "The only 'change' that's hard when it comes to pets is saying goodbye when it's time for them pets to go."

"Unfortunately, the Golden Retriever you see in the pictures has passed away. Now, I have a Taiwanese dog and six cats." John has adopted all of his pets; before joining the artist in his home, they were all homeless.

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    #2

    Person eating alone before and sharing food with pets after getting a pet, showing life changes with pets at the dining table.

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    Getting a pet is very exciting but -- as UK's veterinary charity The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals points out -- providing everything for a new animal can be overwhelming. To choose the right pet and understand its needs, the organization suggests to think P-E-T-S: place, exercise, time, and spend (with bonus points for additional knowledge.)

    Start by considering how much space do you have where the animal could freely run and play. For example, dogs, in particular, need regular access to safe spaces but many cats also enjoy being able to exercise. Even guinea pigs need to go for runs!

    Next, think about how active your life is. Can you go on regular walks, actively engage an animal, that sort of thing?

    Pets are generally sociable and some especially love their owner's company, so it's also really important that they aren't left alone for long periods of time as they can become lonely, anxious, and distressed. Estimate how much time you could spend with your pet.

    #3

    Man packing suitcase before and after getting a pet with cats sitting inside illustrating life changes after pet ownership.

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    Moreover, it's not just the initial cost of getting a pet which you need to consider. Food, equipment, toys, medical treatments, replacing a chewed-up bed – it all adds up significantly over the lifetime of your pet, especially when they age and develop health problems. How much money could you spend on your new companion?

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    After you sit down and really think about P-E-T-S, you should have an idea of what animal suits you best. Knowing what to expect, all the life changes shouldn't be too difficult!

    #4

    Before and after images showing life changes that happen after getting a pet, including waking up with dogs nearby.

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    #5

    Smartphone photo galleries showing life changes after getting a pet with before food photos and after pet photos.

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    #6

    Person working at desk before and after getting pets, illustrating life changes with cats and a dog in the workspace.

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    #7

    Person dealing with insects before and after getting a pet cat, showing life changes after getting a pet in a home setting.

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    #8

    Shoe rack before and after getting a pet, showing fewer shoes and a dog and cat in the room illustrating life changes.

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    #9

    Room before and after getting a pet, showing life changes with playful dogs and a messy, lively environment.

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    #10

    Before and after getting a pet, gaming setup changes with a cat lying on the keyboard causing defeat on screen.

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    #11

    Hand holding an empty wallet before and after getting a pet, showing expenses and pet care changes in lifestyle.

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    #12

    Before and after getting a pet, family dynamics and attitudes change, showing common life changes after getting a pet.

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    #13

    Car interior before and after getting a pet, showing clean seats first and then with dog and paw prints on seats.

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    #14

    Woman at the beach before getting a pet and caring for multiple cats indoors after life changes with a pet.

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    #15

    Illustration showing life changes after getting a pet, from indoor relaxation to outdoor activities with a dog.

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    #16

    Before and after life changes after getting a pet, showing shopping alone versus carrying pet supplies with two dogs.

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    #17

    Shelf with toys and a speaker before pet ownership, and a playful dog causing chaos after getting a pet at home.

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    #18

    Before and after life changes after getting a pet shown with a cat resting on a home altar beside traditional food offerings.

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    #19

    Before and after getting a pet, showing changes in mealtime habits with food being shared with a dog under the table.

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    #20

    View from person playing on phone before and struggling to play after getting a pet that disconnects the device at home

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    #21

    Before and after getting a pet, a person changes habits, focusing on pet care instead of personal indulgence.

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    #22

    Before and after getting a pet, the image shows a change in life with dogs appearing at the door and pet-related items nearby.

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