Introduction
If you are considering a pet, there are many factors to consider. Before you start looking, remember that all pets are living, thinking, feeling beings -- just like people. And like people, they deserve the proper care to help them live happy, fulfilling lives. Be prepared to offer your pet shelter, love, affection, exercise, and proper nutrition. If you do not have enough time to give an animal these things, you should not bring her or him into your home.
Step 1: Figure out Your Needs
Take these things into consideration:
- How much space do you have?
- How much time will you be able to spend with your pet?
- Do you have small children?
- How much money can you spend on supplies?
- Can you deal with shedding?
- How affectionate do you want your pet to be?
- Does anyone in your household have allergies?
Step 2: Consider the Options
Here are some popular choices:
- Dogs: good if you have plenty of space, time for walks and play, and love affection
- Cats: good if you have limited space, time to play, and like affection but not smothering
- Fish: a good choice if you are not home often, and have enough money for supplies and maintenance
- Rodents: a good option if you have limited space, and have time to let them out of the cage to play
- Birds: good for limited space, and if you have a lot of time for bonding and play
- Reptiles: good for limited space, if you have some time to let them out of the cage
Step 3: Adopt if Possible
There are many, many pets available at animal shelters for adoption -- some of them purebreds. Before going to a pet store, check out the local Humane Society or look in your local paper for animals in need of care.
By adopting, you may save an animal's life. Pet stores often get their animals from cruel breeders, and keep them in uncomfortable environments. Dogs and cats, in particular, should generally be adopted. Don't forget that you can also save hundreds of dollars by choosing a pet from a shelter!
