Pets

Selecting Your Pet And Companion

In America about 60% of U.S. households have at least one dog, cat, bird, or other companion animal. Many have more than one.
Pets are popular because they provide companionship, joy, unconditional love, a sense of safety, and often a service. These are probably some of the reasons why you're thinking about getting a pet. Animals are fun to be with and they make us feel good!
Your pet-owning experience will be most enjoyable if you take the time to consider which animal best suits your family. You can start by answering some easy questions and gathering sound information and advice.
Select your pet the best way--the way recommended by veterinarians. A pet will become your daily responsibility, so make an informed pet selection. Don't let the playful antics of the first puppy, kitten, or bird you see or the latest status-symbol pet charm you into accepting a responsibility for which you and your family are not prepared.
There are unwanted pets that have to be put to death each year. These pets selected without serious consideration. Taking the responsibility of pet ownership is a serious commitment.
Selecting a pet should be a family project with everyone's needs, concerns, fears, and medical history considered. Family members should decide together what kind of animal they want, the amount of time they anticipate spending with it, and the amount of responsibility each person is willing to assume. Be realistic. Promises from some family members, particularly children, may not be fulfilled.
Your goal is to identify the best pet for your living space, lifestyle, and budget. Take time, involve the family, and answer the following questions.


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"Do You Have Room for a Pet?

Active dogs need more space and more daily exercise than older or more sedentary dogs. Some pets may get enough exercise within the confines of a house or apartment. For their own safety, dogs and cats should not be allowed to run uncontrolled, but should be walked on a leash or exercised in an enclosed area. Most animals are better kept indoors or in a suitable kennel while you're gone. Cats, birds, and small mammals can adapt to any size living quarters.


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What Activities Do You Enjoy?

You and your family should discuss the reasons you want a companion animal and what you expect an animal to do with and for you. Most people keep pets as companions, whereas others enjoy animals for showing, breeding, hunting, or other reasons. Will the animal you're considering have the temperament and physical attributes to participate in your outdoor activities (hiking, hunting, or camping) or in quiet pastimes at home? If your leisure activities take you away from home, who will care for your pet during your absences? Read about the temperaments and needs of species and breeds, and identify those that best match your lifestyle.


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