Your children’s pleas for a furry friend have got too much, your resolve is weakening and you are searching for a new addition to your family. Ask yourself the following questions before making any final decisions:
Where Do You Live?
Do you live in a small flat? If so, a large dog or energetic puppy would not be appropriate; with no room to exercise they may become destructive. While a bird will not run through your home as a dog would, their noisy squawking can travel great distances and could become a nuisance to your neighbours.
Do your research before choosing a pet; certain small breeds, such as terriers, can be extremely active and need plenty of space while some large dogs, like greyhounds, are often more laid back. A big house with an enclosed garden might be more conducive to dog ownership. If you cannot offer a great deal of space for your pet; consider a cat or aquarium-based animal that wouldn’t mind a smaller home environment.
Who Will Take Care Of The Pet?
If you work long hours, animals such as fish or reptiles that don’t require constant attention might be more suitable; if you and your family travel a lot it is important to consider whether you need to hire pet sitters while you are away.
Parents whose children require a lot of attention may not be able to also care for a rambunctious puppy or other energetic animal. If you employ a nanny, ask if she would mind incorporating feeding the cat or walking the dog into her daily responsibilities. Families with older children might want to think about what tasks their kids can take on to learn about responsibility and caring for animals; ask them to take charge of walking the dog, filling food and water bowls, grooming or cleaning cages.
What Is Your Budget?
Caring for an animal can be expensive so set a budget beforehand and choose a pet you can afford to adequately care for. You’ll need:
- Toys for your pet to play with
- Food and feeding equipment
- Accomodation, such as an aquarium for fish, a cage for birds or a heat tank for reptiles.
Certain animals require a specific diet, which can also increase your budget; add training classes, vaccinations and pet insurance and the costs can quickly mount up. It may be more economical to adopt an older animal that has already been trained, vaccinated and housebroken; you will also have a better idea of how the pet will react to possible stress factors such as other animals, children and being left alone for periods of time.
You must also be aware, however, that as your pet reaches its old age it is likely to need extra care as it experiences all of the issues humans go through later in life; larger dogs often develop arthritis and hip problems and surgery and medication can be costly. It’s important to weigh your options when considering the age of your pet and your budget.
What Kind of Pet Should You Bring into the Family?
From dogs, cats and fish to something more exotic, the possibilities abound. Pets are typically broken down into three categories: companion, working and show animals.
- Companions are those pets which will stick with you through thick or thin.
- Working animals are chosen because of their special abilities, like guiding a blind person or herding sheep.
- Show animals often require a great deal of dedication and time, as they are being groomed for a specific purpose.
Most families are looking for companion pets unless they have a family member with a disability or dreams of a win at Crufts.
What Other Questions Should You Ask?
Organisations such as the RSPCA and Woodgreen Animal Shelter provide more thorough advice for people looking for a pet. If you take some time to think about your family’s needs, living situation and financial commitments your new addition will be a part of the family in no time.
