There is no denying that our pets really are part of the family. They keep our hearts full with their immense chaos, happiness, and affection. However, when it comes to choosing the right pet for your home, there are many things you need to consider.
After all, pets have complex needs and can’t directly tell us what they’re thinking, unlike humans. Whether you’re checking out rescue sites, talking directly to breeders, or considering heading to a pet store, you must keep these things in mind.
Consider Your Space
When choosing a pet, you seriously need to consider your space. After all, some pets will need far more space than others. If you’re renting, you also need to remember that some landlords won’t allow pets in their homes.
If you’re considering more unique animals, such as goats, chickens, or ducks, you will need to have far more outdoor space. Some animals are simply unsuitable as indoor animals. You should also consider adding some ways to enrich your pet’s environment to ensure happiness.
Space should always be a massive factor. With too small of a space, pets may develop bad habits that can be detrimental to their mental health and physical well-being.
Consider Your Pet’s Age
Okay, we get it. Puppies, kittens, and pretty much any other baby animal are super cute. It can also feel very rewarding as you raise them because you shape them into the grown animal they become. However, you also need to think about some serious things before you get all caught up with cute faces.
You also need to consider that you will need to potty train most animals, socialize them correctly, neuter them, and deal with any chaos they may get up to as they grow up. You may find accidents in the house, chewed-up doors, and many other unideal things.
If you don’t think you can deal with this, you may be better off buying an animal that is already past the baby stage. A more mellow companion may suit your lifestyle better if you don’t have the time or patience required when raising a young animal.
Older dogs can still be trained, so you won’t miss out on the training period.
Meet Your Pet First
Some people tend to buy their animals unseen on the internet. However, this is a really bad idea! You’re much more likely to hit it off with your pet if you meet them once or twice before you go to pick them up or have them delivered to you.
Looks really can be deceiving, which is why you should meet your pet and not just go off a picture posted alone. It can be pretty hard to figure out what kind of personality your pet has if you don’t meet them. Then you may end up with an unruly pet or one that doesn’t click with you.
Aside from personality clashes, you may even be scammed! If you don’t meet your pet first, it may arrive a completely different breed, or not arrive at all! If someone ever asks you for money before you pick up your pet, make sure you don’t send it and give cash on pick up.
If your pet is being delivered, try to ask the seller for references, dated pictures, and dated videos.
Consider Your Financial Situation
When getting a pet, it is crucial that you figure out what you can afford. Often, the smallest cost is buying the pet! You need to consider vet bills, pet insurance, food bills, and accessories to make your pets’ life easier, among other things.
It’s crucial that you take good care of your pets. It can cost up to $3,000 every single year to care for a dog alone! It is also important to realize that some pets will have excess needs, which will further drive the price you have to pay.
It is a good idea to schedule regular check-ups to ensure that your pets are up-to-date with their vaccines and other annual needs.
First-Time Pets to Consider
If you’re looking at buying your first pet, all the things above need to be considered before you take the leap. Once you’ve figured all of that out, it’s time to figure out which pet is best for your needs! When choosing the perfect pet, the ones below make excellent companions!
Dogs
Dogs are man’s best friend. We’ve all heard the phrase. They’re fun, super loving, full of kindness, and as loyal as can be.
If you’re looking for a chaotic, fun, and sometimes destructive pet to spend your time with, a dog may just be the perfect companion you’ve been looking for! Dogs are one of the number one pets in the world for a variety of reasons.
Cats
Much like dogs, cats are super popular pets, especially for first-time owners. These fluffy little companions are known for their chilled-out, sassy attitudes. Cats love to laze around and enjoy the company of their humans.
If you want a cute, affectionate, and playful companion, a cat may be the friend you’ve been looking for! They are also great for families with kids as they are much less chaotic than puppies.
Fish
Fish are great pets for families. They are very low maintenance, gorgeous to look at, and very fun. While they certainly aren’t as interactive as cats and dogs, they can make great pets for kids who just aren’t comfortable around bigger animals yet.
They’re great first pets for kids who need to learn how to take care of an animal.
