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Choosing a pet should be serious fun

Choosing a pet should be fun and exciting but should also have a serious side to it. Far too many pets are abandoned or mistreated because not enough thought and preparation went into choosing a pet to suit the household.

Owning a pet brings with it lots of fun and companionship but in return you need to exercise responsibility. This includes being able to supply the basics for the health and comfort of your pet.

There are many factors you need to take into account when choosing a pet. Some factors you need to consider are:

1) The reason(s) for wanting a pet

There are unfortunately many pets which are acquired after spur of the moment decisions. This is often a recipe for disaster as the warm feeling soon passes when the novelty wears off and invariably it is the animal that suffers the consequences.You should only acquire a pet after serious consideration of all the long term commitments necessary to support and nurture a pet.

2) Your living environment

Your location (city, country, flat, house etc) should be a major factor when choosing a pet. Many dog breeds would be unsuitable for people living in an inner city environment, whereas most cat breeds and some exotic pets would be fine.

3) Your Lifestyle

If you are rarely home for any length of time but still want a pet then you need to maybe consider a pet that is less dependant on the human-animal bond. This does not mean that they can be neglected for periods of time but simply that they are not "high maintenance" 24/7. A good example of this would be fish in a small uncomplicated aquarium.

4) Your financial status

Unfortunately, like it or not, pets cost money. It is not fair on the pet if you cannot afford to house and feed it properly as well as make provision for basic Veterinary care.It is certainly also not a good idea to deprive yourself or other family members simply to supply the basics for a healthy and happy pet.

5) Your health status

While it is mainly dogs that need to be walked regularly (and thus need someone fit enough to do that), most pets have skin and fur or hair that people can be allergic to. If you or a family member are prone to allergies, then a furry pet may not be a good idea.

6) Your knowledge

How much do you know about the particular type of pet you want. Unfortunately, pets can be "impulse" buys with people not always aware of the particular requirements of that animal. This is particularly true of more exotic pets. A lack of knowledge of their needs can have unfortunate consequences and/or lead to unforseen expenses and frustration - not a recipe for a happy and healthy pet!

7) Compatability with other pets

If you already have pets, or a pet, and are thinking of getting another one of a different species, remember to take into account the natural order of things. For example, cats and mice may not be the best mix of pets, even if the mice are kept in a cage in a room that usually has the door closed. Its manageable - most of the time - but its also risky!

When choosing a pet make sure you do your homework before you acquire the pet.You owe it to yourself and the pet(s). A poor choice inevitably leads to a stressed household and a stressed pet with an immune system under pressure. That is bad news for your pets health!

For another insight into choosing a pet, go to Pet-finder-and-pet-products Useful information on buying and looking after your pets, cats and dogs. This site also covers rodents, reptiles, goats, horses, fish, birds, farm animals, insects and other exotic pets.

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