What Kind Of Pet To Choose

What Types of Pets Should I Consider?

When it comes to choosing a pet for yourself and your family, there are many types available, and there are also many things to consider when making that choice. If you have a family, it is highly recommended that everyone discuss the reasons for wanting a pet and all of the needs and responsibilities involved in the decision.

Here are some of the most common types of pets from which to choose:

Dogs –  Dogs are my personal “pet of choice”.  They are loyal, happy, intelligent, obedient and loveable. They give us unconditional love.  They bond easily with their owner(s), and children love them.  They do, however, need proper care and they do require a lot of your time if they are to live happily and healthily.  There is a real responsibility to feed daily, walk or exercise daily, train (if you choose a puppy), and keep the dog healthy by ensuring that you take it for regular vet visits.

Cats –  Cats have been desirable pets since the days of the Egyptians. They can be less demanding and can easily adjust to a variety of lifestyles and living spaces. Every cat is an individual, so it’s important to take time to choose the one who’s right for you. There is a popular belief that if you’re patient, the right cat will pick you. Keep that in mind if you visit a shelter to look for a cat to add to your family.

Fish – Fish are another popular house pet choice. They are beautiful to look at and they have a tranquil, calming effect while watching them. I believe that some people have a sort of “green thumb” with fish, while others do not. They are definitely low maintenance, but need regular care, including feeding them, changing the water at certain times, and cleaning their tank regularly. There is no real bonding with fish, but they do seem to react to your feeding them. It is important to research the different types of fish and their needs.

Birds –  Parrots, Cockatoos, Parakeets and Cockatiels are the most common birds that are kept as pets. They usually bond to one member of the family, which should be a serious consideration if you have a family. Generally, the larger the species, the longer they live, so you need to consider the lifelong commitment it takes to care for pet birds. Birds need their cages cleaned and fresh food provided every day. Weekly cleaning and disinfecting the bird’s cage is also needed.  Some pet birds can be very loud, and sometimes messy (seeds, feathers, droppings), and that is another consideration.  Parrots and parakeets do make interesting pets, as they can be taught to talk, and birds in general are very social pets.

Hamsters, Gerbils and Guinea Pigs  –  These small pets for are good for apartment dwellers, are easy to care for, and they do not require a lot of time or attention. Guinea Pigs are the most social and are the most suitable for children. They are also easiest to find if they escape from their cages. Hamsters typically live about two to three years, are nocturnal, and need plenty of safe chew toys.  They love running on wheels and through tunnels. Gerbils are not ideal for young children as they tend to nip.  They love to burrow and climb, and love exercise wheels and running in hamster balls to explore.

These small animals do have a strong odor, especially if their cages are not cleaned frequently. The most odiferous of this group are hamsters, the least are gerbils.

Rabbits  –  Rabbits make wonderful pets in the right situations. They are adorable when they are babies, are quiet, clean, and can be trained (even litter box trained). They bond closely with their owners and can get along nicely with cats and some dogs. Pet rabbits, when housed indoors and cared for properly, can live eight to 12 years or even longer. Small-breed rabbits can easily live into their teens when they are cared for properly.

Reptiles –  Small reptile pets are not for everyone, but if you enjoy exotic reptiles, then this type of pet may be the right choice. Reptiles are capable of recognizing people by voice, sight and smell, and many are capable of learning. Some species actually benefit from interaction with humans. When cared for properly, all can live a long life. The cost of a reptile is usually the least expensive part of keeping one. The initial cost should include an enclosure, special heating and lighting, essential furnishings, food and water supplies, nutritional supplements, housing and food, and veterinary visits.

Preparation is priceless when it comes to committing to the care and guardianship of another living being. Remember that your decision is an important one.  It will affect your life, your family’s life, and the life of the pet you have chosen.

Good luck in choosing your new pet! Below is a video to help you make that decision, enjoy.

Cheri