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The onset of Spring, which is soon to arrive, can often lead many to reconsider looking into whether they want to own a pet or not. In our latest article, we explore just what to consider when choosing a pet.
Owning a pet can be a wholesome and rewarding experience. However, every animal and their needs are different, so how can you ensure that you’re ready for a new member of your family and your home and that you choose the right one for you? We share our top tips on how to choose the right pet for you and your lifestyle.
Start with an open mind
You may like the look or idea of a certain pet but that doesn’t mean they’re right for you. Every pet has its own personality and specific breeds of dogs often have particular traits – for example terriers can be lively and require a lot of exercise and stimulation to stop boredom setting in. Likewise, Pomeranians require lots of grooming. If you have children, look for a friendly, confident dog rather than setting your heart on a particular breed.
Most people think that all small pets are great for children but this simply isn’t always true. Some pets, including hamsters and chinchillas, are nocturnal, which means that when the children want to play, their pets are snoozing happily and will not want to be being disturbed.
Pets like gerbils and mice are speedy and agile and it can be difficult for children to handle them without squeezing too hard. What’s more, rabbits are prey animals and don’t always enjoy being picked up and cuddled.
However, typically less popular pets like rats can actually make super pets and love social interaction with people. Taking time to consider your options and carefully researching what is out there is key.
Lifestyle consideration it vital
You may have an idea of what type of pet you want but it is of the utmost importance to consider what would be best suited to your home and lifestyle.
For example, if you work full time and you want a dog, who would look after them during the day? Are there any local dog day care centres or dog walking services you can use and have you explored the costings?
Likewise if you are exploring the idea of getting a cat, have you considered that they will need access to outside space while you’re out and about during the day and how will you feel if you come home to a clawed sofa?
It is imperative to thoroughly look into the size, temperament, exercise requirements, lifespan and health predispositions of different pets and breeds to make sure they’re the right fit for you.
Figure out costs
From daily things like insurance, food and toys to unexpected vet bills, having a pet is a financial commitment.
Certain pets may cost a few hundred pounds a year while others can cost thousands therefore ensure that you account for how much your new pet will cost before you choose them.
Think about a rescue pet
Thousands of stray, abandoned and unwanted pets are desperate for a loving home. Charities like Blue Cross can offer help and advice about individual pets and assist you in finding the right one for you and your family.
They’ll explore your lifestyle and what you want from a pet and suggest suitable animals from the many in their care.
An adult rescue pet can be 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 understand their personality 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.
Don’t purchase online or from dealers who offer multiple breeds or types of pets – these may sadly be puppy farmers or commercial dealers who have little interest in the welfare of the pets they sell.
We hope that our guide to how to choose the right pet for you has been of use. For further information, visit The Blue Cross which can advise on pet ownership https://www.bluecross.org.uk/
