Welcoming a new furry friend into your home is very exciting! After all, they become an adorable new member of the family. However, not all animals are right for every household. Varying levels of commitment and responsibility come with adopting, whether it’s a dog, cat, reptile, bird or rabbit.
Every family has unique wants, needs and circumstances. Picking the right pet to welcome into your home requires careful consideration and planning. Here are five questions you should ask yourself when choosing the right pet for your family:
What can you afford?
It comes as no surprise. Having a pet is not cheap, but some are more of a financial commitment than others. It’s important to consider what you can afford when choosing what kind of pet to welcome into your home. According to CNET, a dog owner can expect to spend more than $600 on a cat and between $500 and $1,000 for a dog in a year. Plus, adoption fees can be pricey depending on whether you adopt from a breeder or a shelter. Other pets, such as birds and bunnies, can also get pricey when considering adoption, cage, supplies and veterinary care.
What is your schedule?
Do you work from home or are you always in the office? Do you travel often? How often do you exercise? Your daily schedule is an important factor because some pets require more attention than others. For example, dogs can be considered rather high maintenance. They require proper exercise, diet, training, attention and grooming depending on the breed. Other pets, such as rabbits and ferrets, require time out of their cage, so they get a decent amount of exercise to remain healthy, which can pose a risk to your furniture if they decide to take a bite.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, cats are relatively low maintenance. Cats tend to be more independent and self-sufficient. A bowl of food, a clean litter box and occasional affection is usually enough to please them. Fish are also low maintenance, requiring only a clean tank and food. Other animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and small birds are also good options. No matter what type of pet you get, make sure you have a plan for someone to care for them if you go on a business trip or vacation.
Where do you live?
Consider your living situation and the impact it might have on your pet. Do you live in an apartment or large house? Do you live in the city or out in the countryside? Certain pets require more living space to roam than others. Larger breeds of dogs, such as the retriever or boxer, can be more athletic and need more exercise. Smaller breeds, such as the bulldog or dachshund, require less space and exercise. Cats, reptiles, fish, and gerbils also do well in small spaces.
Who is in your house?
It’s well known that pet ownership and care pose many benefits to families. They help provide companionship, life lessons and a sense of responsibility. Of course, dogs top the list, but some are better around children than others. Hamsters and fish are low maintenance and can teach kids an early sense of responsibility. And, of course, cats are a good option too. Just be sure to consider the preferences of everyone in the household, as well as any pet allergies they may have.
Why do you want a pet?
Most people who get a pet are looking for a companion. However, that companionship looks different for the different types of pets. If you’re looking for an exercise buddy, dogs are best. If you’re looking for a lap warmer, cats are great! If you need someone to talk to that can talk back for better or worse, parrots are your bird.
Above all, do your research before adopting a pet. There are many factors to consider when deciding which one is right to welcome into your home. If you’re ready for a new home, Brunswick Crossing has the models and amenities to satisfy every family member.
