If you have decided it is time to add a four-legged or feathered family member to your home, there is a lot to consider. After all, there are a lot of choices in pets with a variety of amount of care needed.
Perhaps the easiest pet to care for is a fish, or a few fish. Although they do not need a lot of attention, they do need daily care. At a minimum, the bowl or aquarium must be kept clean and at the proper temperature for the species you choose and they need daily feeding.
Whether choosing a pet for yourself or for the family with a child in charge of its care, it is important that an adult be able to oversee the care and make sure that your he or she has food, water, and is cleaned up after. Maybe you will choose a hamster to be kept in the kid’s room. That is great, but make sure that your child is giving your new pet fresh food and water daily as well as a clean living area.
Dogs and cats are the most popular choices in pets. Adopting from a shelter or a rescue agency is a wonderful way to add to the family while rescuing a life. But, make sure you are ready for the responsibility of this new family member. It is a long-term, important commitment that should not be taken lightly. Cats and dogs can live 15 to 20 years. They not only need proper daily care, but also companionship and attention. Shelters are full of these former pets of those who have not taken their responsibilities seriously.
It is not necessary for pets to breed. In fact, they are happier and healthier just being pets. For dogs and cats, it is best to neuter or spay. For smaller pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits, one can be kept alone or you can get two of the same sex for their like companionship.
Before obtaining any new pets, research what will fit into your family and lifestyle best. Consider whether you may have any allergies that could be triggered by a new pet. Think about how much time you have to spend and just what you expect from a new pet. Pick wisely, and prepare to have your life enriched by your new family member.