It depends. I think it is definitely best if people try to make sure they are able to handle medical care that may arise before they get a pet, I think it is most important to make sure you can get any immunizations and spay/neuter done if it is something that the pet needs.

However, there are circumstances that may differ from case to case. For example, I went through a really rough time financially when I had my collies. I had gotten them in more stable times, and a few years later hit on some tougher days. I loved them with all my heart and there was no way I would rehome them because I was having money trouble. I myself wore old clothes and alotted my food carefully in order to keep them fed, but if something big had happened, I don't know how I could have paid for it. I had a very good vet though and when some care had to be done and I couldn't pay for it, he let me make payments, and a couple of times waived the office fees. He just gave me a tube of prescription ointment free when Willie had an outer ear infection. I am very blessed to have a truly caring and compassionate vet.

So to me it depends on the situation, but I definitely think when planning to add another pet to the home, it is best to make sure you can provide for all his/her needs, but you can't always plan for every unforeseen circumstance.