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10 Things to Consider When Looking for a Pet
Whether you’re a single person looking for a companion pet or a busy parent finally relenting to your kids’ begging for a puppy or kitten, you’ve decided to make the leap into pet ownership. Before adding Fluffy or Fido to your household, there are several factors to consider.
The answers you provide to the questions listed below can play a role in determining the type of pet you should get. In some cases, you may need to reconsider your plans to become a pet owner altogether.
1. Your Lifestyle
All pets require attention and care, but some pets require more time and effort than others. Do you rarely venture outside your neighborhood or hometown? If so, you may be suited for the requirements of a dog that needs daily walks and frequent grooming.
On the other hand, if you travel frequently or simply spend little time at home, a less demanding pet might be a better match.
2. Ownership Costs
Acquiring a purebred cat, dog, or horse can be very expensive. Even if you opt for a shelter pet, the cost of ownership for pets can take a significant portion of your budget.
If you’re barely making ends meet, adding expenses for pet food, veterinary care, licenses, and other pet-related costs can add up. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the average annual costs of owning different pets can range from hundreds for small birds to thousands for large dogs.
3. Available Veterinary Care
Medical care is a necessity for almost every pet. Most urban and suburban areas have veterinarians available within a reasonable distance. However, in rural areas, this may not be the case. This is especially true if you choose a non-traditional pet like a cat or dog.
4. Available Accommodations
Where you live and, more importantly, what accommodations you can provide for a pet should have a significant impact on your choices. It’s unfair to expect a large dog to remain cooped up in a cramped apartment. Also, if you’re not prepared to get a proper cage or tank for birds, you shouldn’t consider birds or fish as potential pets.
5. Allergies
Be realistic about any allergies you may have before becoming hopelessly attached to a pet. If you’re allergic to pet dander, owning a long-haired cat or dog will make you miserable. On the other hand, medications or allergy treatments may make it possible to tolerate certain short-haired cats or dogs. Fish make excellent pets for people whose allergies make it impossible to handle furry animals of any kind.
6. Care Responsibilities
Pet care involves more than just putting out a bowl of food every day. Food and water are essential, but so are vaccinations, grooming, nail trimming, keeping the pet’s main area inside or outside the house clean, and addressing illnesses and conditions. If you choose a cat or dog, you should also be prepared to show at least some affection to the pet. Older children and teenagers may reasonably be assigned some of these tasks, but it’s unrealistic to expect young children to take on such responsibilities—except perhaps petting.
7. Age and Health Status of Family Members
Do you have a child in the house? Does an elderly relative live with you or regularly visit? If so, you may want to think twice before getting a rambunctious dog or even a large cat. A calmer kitten or even a bird or fish may be a better choice.
8. Space and Exercise Needs
Consider the space you have available for a pet and their exercise requirements. Larger dogs, for instance, may need a yard to run around in, while smaller breeds or cats might be more suitable for apartment living. Regular exercise is crucial for keeping pets healthy and happy, so ensure you can provide adequate opportunities for physical activity.
9. Lifespan and Commitment
Think about the lifespan of the pet you’re considering and the long-term commitment involved. Dogs and cats, for example, can live for over a decade or more, requiring consistent care throughout their lives. Make sure you’re ready for the responsibility and commitment of caring for a pet for potentially many years before making a decision.
10. Compatibility with Existing Pets
If you already have pets at home, consider how a new pet will fit into the dynamic. Some animals may not get along well with others, while certain breeds have specific compatibility issues. Introducing a new pet into your home should be done gradually and with consideration for the personalities and needs of all animals involved to ensure harmony within the household.
On the other hand, a playful dog may be a perfect fit for a household with children who are at least of elementary school age. Also, if you’re an active adult, a lively dog can provide wonderful companionship and help you stay in shape.