One of the most rewarding experiences is to own a pet. As a pet owner myself I can say this from experience and my life has been better and richer for it.
However, every animal is different, with different needs.
So what is the right pet for you?
Here is some help and tips to consider when making your decision. Research each pet, in detail!
Not every pet is right for every person. You may like the idea of a certain pet, however it is very important that you take the time to research if you would be the perfect match. A pet is a lifetime responsibility, and it is in both your own and the pets best interest that you research properly.
Each pet has it‘s own personality, quirks and character, some often with strong characteristics.
For example, dog breeds such as a Belgian Malinois (Belgian Shepherd) requires lots of exercise and mental stimulation and Shih Tzus require lots of grooming.
People can think that small pets are easy to manage and fantastic for children. However this may not always be the case! Some pets, including hamsters and chinchillas are nocturnal, which means they will be looking to sleep when children are awake, which will make them unhappy if disturbed. Exotic birds are beautiful, clever and extremely affectionate and social, but many things can be poisonous for them to breath in or ingest, they enjoy lots of free time flying and are known to bond to one person/one gender and not be as friendly to any other, so having a bird is can also be adopting a lifestyle change. And not every adorable looking bunny wants to be picked up and cuddled!
If you have a family with children and ate considering a dog, consider looking for a confident dog rather than focusing on specific breeds.
Did you know, that one of the less ‘popular’ pets, rats are actually fantastic companions and enjoy social interaction with their humans? 🐀
Lifestyle
When considering what pet is best suited for you, be sure to think about what would be best suited to your home and lifestyle.
For example, dogs are a fantastic companion, however do you work full time? Who will look after the dog? Have you considered the cost of unexpected vet bills, insurance, food, dog care/walking and day care?
Research size, temperaments, lifespan, exercise requirements and health traits of pets when choosing the right pet for you.
Never impulse buy. Think about the lifetime commitment, are you ready for this?
Your new pet could live for anything from 2 to 20 years, or more. Any impulse purchases may not seem like it was the best idea further down the line!
Choosing the right pet requires both planning and time so don’t rush in to anything.
Consider rescuing or rehoming a pet
Thousands of stray, abandoned and unwanted pets are desperate for a good home. Charities like Blue Cross, Battersea, RSPCA, Dogs Trust can offer support and advice about individual pets and help you find the right one for you and your family.
They’ll discuss your lifestyle and what you want from a pet and suggest suitable animals from the many in their care.
An adult rescue pet is a great choice because their personalities are already established so you can be more confident about whether they’ll fit in well to your lifestyle. They will be neutered, microchipped and vaccinated so they offer great value compared to the outlay involved in buying from a breeder.
If you want a particular breed of dog but still want to help a rescue pet, you can contact specific breed rescue organisations via The Kennel Club.
Use a reputable breeder
If you do want to buy a pedigree dog or cat, ask your vet or breed club to recommend a responsible breeder. Ask the breeder for all the relevant paperwork, like pedigree registration papers, health screening certificates and a written medical history, including vaccinations and worming.
Ask to meet the pet’s parents, relatives and siblings to observe their temperament and general health and welfare and find out if the parents or any of their other litters have developed inherited diseases or problems.
Ask about how the youngsters have been socialised and avoid those that have been reared in kennels, as they may have missed out on important aspects of growing up.
You can also ask to contact the breeder’s vet and other people who have bought youngsters from them to verify this – if they refuse, go elsewhere.
Don’t purchase online or from dealers who offer multiple breeds or types of pets – these may well turn out to be puppy farmers or commercial dealers who have little interest in the welfare of the pets they sell.
Think P-E-T-S!
Getting yourself prepared for a new pet is very exciting but can also be very overwhelming, think P-E-T-S…. Place, Exercise, Time and Spend.
The PDSA have put together some questions to help you with your decision making process HERE.
(Extract from Blue Cross pet advice blog https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/finding-right-pet )
Conclusion
There are many things to consider when choosing the right pet for you. Take your time, do your research, prepare yourself. And you will be rewarded by the perfect companion.
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