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Pets are popular because they provide companionship, joy, unconditional love, a sense of safety, and often a service. These are probably some of the reasons why you're thinking about getting a pet. Animals are fun to be with every day. They make us feel good!
Your pet-owning experience will be most enjoyable if you take the time to consider which animal best suits your family. You can start by answering some easy questions and gathering sound information and advice. This process won't take long and it will be educational and fun, particularly for children.
You've read articles about the millions of unwanted pets that have to be put to death each year. Pets selected on impulse, "for the children," or as a gift during the holidays sometimes end up this way. These pets once belonged to people who fell in love--and then changed their minds.
Selecting a pet should be a family project with everyone's needs, concerns, fears, and medical history (including allergies) considered. Family members should decide together what kind of animal they want, the amount of time they anticipate spending with it, and the amount of responsibility each person is willing to assume. Be realistic. Promises from some family members, particularly children, may not be fulfilled.
Your goal is to identify the best animal(s) for your living space, lifestyle, and budget. Take time, involve the family, and answer the following questions.
Do You Have Room for a Pet?
Active dogs need more space and more daily exercise than older or more sedentary dogs. Some pets may get enough exercise within the confines of a house or apartment. For their own safety, dogs and cats should not be allowed to run uncontrolled, but should be walked on a leash or exercised in an enclosed area. Cats, birds, and small mammals can adapt to any size living quarters.
|  | What Activities Do You Enjoy?
You and your family should discuss the reasons you want a companion animal and what you expect an animal to do with and for you. Most people keep pets as companions, whereas others enjoy animals for showing, breeding, hunting, or other reasons. If your leisure activities take you away from home, who will care for your pet during your absences? Read about the temperaments and needs of species and breeds, and identify those that best match your lifestyle.
| How Do You Spend Your Day?
Pets depend on people for daily affection and attention. Young puppies and kittens require time for training, and feeding. Are you gone all day? Do you frequently work late? What will you do with your pet during long absences? Feeding, exercise, grooming, and play are daily time commitments that must be considered in caring for a healthy, happy pet.
| How Much Will Your Pet Cost?
The purchase price of animals varies greatly. All pets need food and most should have regular visits to a vet for health checkups and vaccinations. Depending on the type of animal you choose. Other cost considerations include emergency veterinary treatment, grooming, and accessories. Pet insurance to cover for unforeseen veterinary expenses and third party liability is to be highly recommended.
|  | What If a Pet Doesn't Fit Your Lifestyle?
Be flexible. After discussing the role a pet will play in your life and talking with knowledgeable people, you may conclude that your first choice for a pet is not appropriate, so be flexible. Your vet may suggest other companion animals whose needs more closely match your own.
A Check-up for Your New Companion
When you obtain your pet you should have the animal examined by a vet.
Your vet is best qualified to assure you that your new friend is healthy and to administer the necessary vaccinations. At the same time, you can discuss proper nutrition and feeding, neutering, other preventive health measures, and grooming needs.
Prepare Your Home for Your Pet's Arrival
Before bringing a pet into your home, prepare a special place for it to eat and sleep. Decide where you will exercise your pet. Obtain any necessary accessories (such as collar and ID tag, leads, scratching post, litter tray etc.) before you bring your pet home.
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Buying a Pet 
