How to decide that a pet is right for you? Pets are like family. But unlike our human relatives, we get to pick our furry companions. You might be searching on rescue websites, at animal shelters, in stores, from breeders, or on sites like Petfinder to find the perfect pet. There are so many cute faces and touching stories out there—it can be a lot to take in. Having a pet is amazing and fulfilling, but every animal is different. So how do you know if you’re ready to add a new member to your family and your home, and how do you choose the right pet for you? More: Your choices mirror your self-evaluation
Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.
Anatole France
You might be drawn to a certain pet because of how they look, but that doesn’t mean they’re the best fit for you. Each pet has its personality, and different dog breeds, for example, have different traits. For instance, Jack Russell terriers need a lot of activity and playtime to stay happy, while Shih Tzus needs regular grooming. If you have kids, it’s important to focus on finding a friendly and confident dog rather than just looking at specific breeds. More: What is stellium? How it affects your zodiac sign?
Think about different animals
The majority of people think about cats and dogs when they plan to buy a pet. But, many other options may be even better choices for your lifestyle.
Some small pets, like hamsters and chinchillas, are awake at night when kids are usually asleep. That means when kids want to play, their pets might be snoozing and not want to be bothered. Other small pets, like gerbils and mice, are quick and can be hard for children to handle without accidentally squeezing too hard. And rabbits, being prey animals, might not enjoy being picked up and cuddled all the time.
But there are also some less common pets, like rats, that can be really fun companions. Rats enjoy spending time with people and can make great pets. So before you decide on a small pet, think about what you want and do some research to find the best fit for you and your family. More: How to deal with a narcissistic personality disorder family member?
When deciding which pet is right for you think about next…
…It’s important to think about what would be best for your home and lifestyle. For example, if you work full-time and want a dog, who will take care of them during the day? Are there any local doggy daycares or dog-walking services you can use? If you’re thinking of getting a cat, will they have a safe outdoor area to explore? How would you feel if they scratched up your furniture? Do you travel a lot? It’s a good idea to do some research on different pets and breeds to see which one suits you best. More: Glendalough: Spiritual Retreats for Prayer and Meditation
…Taking care of a pet can be expensive. Some pets need more care than others, which can make costs go up. It’s important to make sure your pets get regular check-ups at the vet to keep them healthy and protected from diseases and parasites. Some vets offer payment plans or help for people with low incomes, and some programs can assist with the cost of vet care.
…Some people have allergies to pet dander or saliva. Allergies can be managed with medication, and there are ways to reduce allergens in your home. While there’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, some breeds are considered low-allergen because they shed less. Birds, reptiles, fish, and short-haired rodents might be better options for people with severe allergies.
…Consider your living space when choosing a pet, as some pets need more room than others. Some landlords don’t allow pets. Keep in mind that some helper animals, like emotional support animals and service animals, are allowed to live with you even if your landlord doesn’t normally allow pets. Providing environmental enrichment, like safe toys and spaces for your pet to explore, can help keep them happy and healthy in your home. More: What is art therapy?
Choosing your perfect pet
Consider adopting a rescue pet. There are thousands of stray, abandoned, and unwanted pets out there who need loving homes. Charities like Blue Cross can give you advice and support in finding the perfect pet for you and your family. They’ll talk with you about your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a pet and then suggest animals from their shelter that might be a good fit. Choosing an adult rescue pet is a good idea because you can see their personality right away. You’ll know if they’ll fit well into your life. Plus, they’ll already be neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated, which saves you money compared to buying from a breeder. More: Which plants promote relaxation?
If you have your heart set on a specific breed of dog but still want to rescue, you can reach out to breed-specific rescue organizations through The Kennel Club. If you decide to buy a purebred pet, make sure you find a responsible breeder. Ask your vet or a breed club for recommendations. The breeder should give you all the necessary paperwork, like registration papers and health certificates. It’s also important to meet the pet’s parents, relatives, and siblings to see their temperament and health. Ask about how the young pets have been socialized, and avoid those that have been raised in kennels, as they might not have had the best upbringing.
You can also ask to speak with the breeder’s vet and other people who have bought pets from them to make sure they’re reputable. If they refuse, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Avoid buying pets online or from dealers who offer multiple breeds or types of pets. These might be puppy mills or commercial dealers who don’t care about the welfare of the animals they sell. More: Symptoms of mental illnesses in dogs
