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How to Choose a Pet Wisely

     People enjoy companionship, but when it comes to choosing an animal for a pet there should be considerations. Some things that should be considered are not as obvious as others. You should decide if your choice of pet will be compatible with its new environment as well as your family. You should also realize how involved caring for the pet may be or may become before actually making a decision on what kind of pet you should get, because you will be making a commitment to the well being of a living creature. And perhaps just as important, if not more so, is where you decide to get your new pet from and may be a matter of life and death.

     Environment is a very important factor. You would not want to get a pony if you live in the city, so keep in mind that larger animals tend to desire a larger environment. If you live in a rural area, in a home with larger rooms, you might consider a larger dog, for example. Also consider members of your family, such as infants or impending arrivals of newborns, the elderly and those who may be allergic to certain animals. If you have an asthmatic child, then you may wish to stay away from birds and animals that produce dander and consider a reptile such as an iguana. Or a hairless domestic cat could be a consideration. And the elderly may get hurt should a large canine jump on them, so keep in mind possible mishaps.

     Care for your pet is also a factor to consider. Some animals require a lot of attention and may even tend to be destructive should you leave them alone for long periods of time. Others require less attention, such as goldfish. But ALL animals require you to care for them when you make them your pet. When you take them home with you, you are acknowledging that you will provide water, food, a clean place to live as well as plenty of affection and attention. They are, for the most part, a new member of your family and should be treated well. Items like food, water, bowls, a brush for fur and other such necessities should be purchased before bringing your pet home, much like preparing for a newborn infant arrival. And what if it gets sick? Possible Veterinarian bills are not cheap, and may range anywhere from sixty to several hundred dollars or more. Will someone be home to care for them? If you're gone a large portion of the day for work and no one else is home, perhaps consider a playmate, or a pet-sitter to check in on him/her.

     Deciding where to get your pet from may be even more important than what kind of pet you choose. Choosing a pet may seem a simple task, however there are serious considerations in making this decision. Not only do you need to consider the environment for a pet as well as the requirements for caring for a living creature, but also where you are going to get this pet from. Indeed, there are consequences for not paying attention to details in such an important decision that is long term and affects another life. Be careful that you do not unwittingly help what is known as a "puppy mill" type of organization or individual. The best thing that you or anyone can do is to visit the local Humane Society and take a look at what they have to offer. If you see an animal that interests you, make the staff aware of this and make a second visit with your family to see if everyone gets along well together. By obtaining a pet from the Humane Society you are giving a living soul more than just a home. Plus, you're dealing with known professionals who will make you aware of the pets’ health and disposition as well as assuring that no pets have been or will be mistreated due to your thought out, more informed choice.

     Indeed, choosing a pet is a lot to think about. The environment should match the type of pet you choose and family members should get along with the new pet not just interactively speaking, but health wise as well. And being capable of caring for this new member of the family is also of great importance, as this pet will depend on you and your family to make sure it has water, food and all its needs met on a daily basis. And finally, getting your pet from a source that doesn't feed a demand for things like puppy mills and gives an animal a second chance at the same time is the home run decision that will make your choice to get a pet one that you will likely never regret. Making these important decisions before you choose is thinking responsibly and may even help avoid potential disaster. But if you provide a good home that suits the new pet, and it gets along well with the family, then the commitment for caring for your new pet should be well worth the rewards of an affectionate animal who greets you when you come home with a wagging tail, meows or chirps of joy.

-Thomas France (03/2010)