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The number one reason why healthy pets are relinquished or given up for adoption is due to them not fitting the lifestyle of the owner. Choosing the best pet for you does not mean picking out the cutest puppy or kitten. Much thought should be taken when deciding on what type of pet to adopt and the role it will fill in your family.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself before deciding on the best pet for you.
1. What is the purpose of adopting a pet?
-Will it be a buddy to take on hikes or bike rides or someone you can compete with in agility?
-Will it be someone who will curl up in your lap or sleep in bed with you or a pet to teach your child responsibility?
A cat will not go on walks with you, and a border collie dog may not be a couch potato. Picking a pet to suit your activity and emotional needs is very important.
2. Does anyone in the family have allergies? If so, what are they?
If this person would need to take allergy medication to get a pet, are they willing to do so?
3. Are there children in the household? If so, what are their ages?
Certain breeds of dogs are not reliable around children. In addition, small pocket pets can be severely injured if dropped or squeezed.
4. How much time will you have to exercise the pet?
Dogs need more exercise than cats and should be taken for daily walks. Some pocket pets do not need much, if any outside cage play time.
5. Do you have access to exercise areas?
This is important for dogs that will need some off-leash time to run and play.
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6. How long will the pet be alone on a daily basis?
-Dogs should not be left alone for more than 8-10 hrs a day or behavior concerns could begin.
-Pocket pets should not be ignored, and most do fine with little handling.
-If you work, can you come home at lunchtime to play with your dog or cat?
-If you work long shifts, can you afford a petsitter or doggy-daycare?
7. How much grooming and shedding do you want to deal with?
-Some dogs and cats require daily brushing to prevent matting.
-Some dogs have coats that need trimmed every 3-6 weeks by a professional groomer.
-Birds require baths too. They need sprayed with water, nail trims, and/or beak and wing trims.
8. How much room do you have in your home?
A large newfoundland is not the best fit for your apartment. Consider size and exercise requirements when choosing a pet if you live in an apartment.
9. Do you have room for cages, an aquarium, or litter boxes?
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10. How much can you financially manage with the pet?
Remember, the larger the pet, the more expensive the costs for food, medications, and long-term treatments. Also, consider grooming and maintenance upkeep (litter, bedding, etc).
11. Have you considered how adding a new pet to your household will affect your current pet and/or children?
Both children and pets can show jealousy when they are no longer the center of attention. Discuss how this will be handled ahead of time.
12. Have you had a pet before?
Do your research;, less demanding or older pets can be a great way to get early experience.
13. How long of a commitment do you want to take-on?
-Cats and dogs can live 10-20 years.
-Pocket pets typically live 2-5 years,
-Some birds can live to be 75+ years!
-Will your pet outlive you?
-Will you be moving somewhere that will not allow pets during the new pet’s lifespan?
If a dog is your choice, there are many breeds to choose from. The following website has more specific questions to help match you with the best breed for you: www.dogbreedinfo.com
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