Pets bring great joy to many people’s lives, but because each person or family is different, pets are not one-size-fits-all. Dogs and cats are the most common household pets, but many other  furry, slimy, scaly, or feathered animals can make excellent companions. Get your whole family on the same page before bringing home your next pet by asking yourself and your family members the following questions from The Gentle Vet team, and then discussing your answers together.

#1: Why do you want a pet?

The reason you want a pet will deeply inform your decision about the type that will best fit your needs. Some reasons people may decide they want a pet include:

  • Companionship — A companion pet provides company, unconditional love, purpose, and support. This is the most common reason why people want a pet.
  • Protection — A protection pet may live mostly outdoors to guard property or livestock, or could live inside as a companion who will fiercely protect their family.
  • Sport — Working dogs may compete in their own sports or accompany you when you exercise, such as running or hiking. 
  • Hobbies — Pet hobbyists like to enjoy pets, such as fish in a saltwater tank, from afar, or they may buy, sell, trade, or breed pets, such as reptiles or amphibians. 
  • Family interaction — Is your pet going to be a family member and interact with young children? Do you want a high or low-energy pet?

#2: How much time do family members have to care for a pet?

After deciding why you want a pet, consider how much time and energy your family can devote to the pet’s care. Dogs are extremely social and need daily exercise, while cats and other indoor-only pets can be left alone for the day without worry. Mammals and birds are highly intelligent and need daily social activities to keep them from being bored or destructive, while fish or amphibians will be content to spend the days alone in their habitat. Research your desired pet’s physical and emotional needs and determine whether you have enough time to devote to their care.

#3: Do you have enough space for your desired pet?

How much physical space your pet needs will also factor into your decision. A large, young, energetic dog needs room to run and play and is not well-suited to a small apartment, while the same space may be enough for an older or smaller dog, or a cat. Consider size, age, and activity level when deciding which pet you can accommodate, as well as their needs, such as a bed, crate, or cage, and where they will fit in your home.

#4: How much can you spend on pet supplies and services?

Generally speaking, the larger the pet, the more expensive their care. How much can you spare for startup expenses, such as housing, bedding, bowls, training materials, and cleaning supplies, and for ongoing monthly costs, such as food, parasite control, veterinary visits, grooming, and medications? Dogs and cats are typically the most expensive pets—they can cost about as much as a mid-range vehicle over their lifetime—while small mammals, like hamsters, ferrets, or rats, are the least expensive.

#5: Are you prepared for a life-long pet commitment?

Is your family prepared to commit to your new pet for their entire lifetime? Dogs and cats are at least a 10- to 15-year commitment, while small mammals and many fish live only a few years. Some reptiles and birds can live decades—can you keep this pet if you move, lose your job, get sick, or your family situation changes?

#6: How will your pet fit in with other pets?

Consider whether adding a new pet will affect your current household pets positively or negatively. Does your cat actually want a puppy? Maybe, maybe not—that depends on your cat’s personality. If your pets don’t get along or need time to adjust, do you have enough space in your house for them to live in separate areas? If you want a pocket pet or bird, will they be safe from other household pets?

When you ask the right questions and research your options thoroughly, you’ll have no trouble figuring out your best pet. Once your new companion settles in, schedule a visit with The Gentle Vet team for a health check and consultation about their current and future needs. Call us to schedule a visit, or if you would like additional counseling on choosing a specific pet species or breed that will fit your family’s unique needs.