Tips for Choosing the Right Pet for You and Your Family

Choosing the right pet is an important decision, and many factors should be considered when you are ready to make the move to get a pet for yourself and your family.

Remember that the needs of an animal change with each stage of their life, so this may be important in your decision as to whether you want to choose a young pet or a mature pet. Young pets need lots of attention and training, particularly housetraining for dogs and cats.  Mature pets may already be obedience or housetrained but may take a little more time bonding, depending on their history and whether they have been mistreated in the past.  It is important to be patient with new pets when introducing them into your family environment.

Every pet is unique, and certain species and breeds have distinct characteristics that can help you determine which pet is right for you.

Important things to remember are:

Do not impulse shop for a pet, and be sure to take time to learn about the kind of pet you are considering to bring into your home. The best places to start are your local animal shelters and animal rescue organizations. There are many, many wonderful animals that are in need of a good, loving home.

Ensure that everyone in the family agrees on the choosing of the pet, and match your pet to your home environment and your lifestyle. If you choose a dog, be sure that you have a safe, fenced-in yard, and if you don’t, ensure that you have the time and inclination to walk your pet regularly.

Consider whether it is the right time in your life to get a pet. If you have other pets, will everyone get along?  Also consider the age of your children, or your own health, as those factors may affect what type and age of pet is best.

Examine your reason for wanting a pet, and also decide if you are able to meet the pet’s specific needs. Do some research online or at the library to see how much care your pet will need and factor in you have enough time to properly feed and care for it.

Consider the cost of the pet, which besides the initial cost, will incur expenses with time. It is important to remember that a good diet, veterinary care, grooming, and pet sitting (both depending on the pet) will be a part of your financial responsibility for as long as the pet is in your care.

Choosing The Right Pet

I cannot stress this last point enough:  Understand the commitment

Ask yourself whether you’re ready to care for a cat or a dog for more than 10 years. Dogs can live up to an average of 15-16 years, depending on the breed. Horses, parrots, and some turtles can live significantly longer. Dogs and cats require regular and intensive interaction with people or other dogs and cats. Pets also require a clean, safe, and healthy environment as well as an attentive and caring owner.

If you plan to marry, have children, move, join the military, go away to college, relocate overseas, or care for an elderly relative, you will need to take these possible lifestyle changes into consideration when selecting a pet.

Owning a pet is a big responsibility, and it will change certain aspects of your life, but that pet will reward you with unconditional love for many years to come.

My next article will cover the different types and choices of pets and what makes each one special.

Cheri