Choosing your Family Pet

Choosing the Right Dog or Cat for your Family

By Emilie Heyl

Choosing whether or not to bring a dog or cat into your family is not a decision to take lightly. 26% of UK households have a canine friend and 24% a cat, so pester power can quickly occur when your child wants a dog or cat, just because their best friend at school or playgroup has one. But don’t give in to that, if it is not right for you and your family. Deep thought and thorough research is required, before taking the plunge and going down the furry friend route. Of course, the pros are numerous. Research indicates that children growing up with a pet are 33% less likely to develop allergies and 15% less likely to be asthmatic. Babies also suffer fewer respiratory problems when pets are around. There are social benefits too. A pet can be a companion for your child, boost their confidence and teach them about caring and responsibility. On the downside, your pet will pass away and this will be painful. However, research shows 82% of parents believe this helps their child understand death. A loving pet takes a special place in our hearts and can even boost our exercise regime, but there are big cost considerations that must be considered. PDSA, the UK’s leading vet charity, puts the lifetime cost of a small dog at between £6,500 and £12,000 and this is a minimum. The costs rise to £8,500 to £13,000 for a medium-sized dog and at least £17,000 for a large pooch. It’s not just food that costs money but everything else from vets’ bills and vaccinations, to a bed and toys. And don’t forget the doggy toothbrush! A cat costs less, but you should still budget for a lifetime cost of £12,000 to £24,000, as the same sorts of costs apply. Whilst you would pay-as-yougo, these figures also assume you have pet insurance. Without it, vets’ bills could be astronomical. If you can reconcile all of this, your next decision is a pragmatic one. Does your family have the time for a pet? Even an independent cat needs company and a dog really isn’t the right choice for a family that spend a lot of time away from home. Space is also necessary. Is your garden secure? Is there nearby parkland, beach, or space in which your dog could exercise? Getting a pet with the right temperament is also imperative. Some breeds are typically amiable, whilst others have a short fuse, so do your research, as these may not suit a family with young children. Temperament can also be down to the pet’s early weeks of life. It’s important to personally views their early environment and ensure the seller or breeder can provide all the details you need. There are puppy farms out there, so don’t support or get caught out by these. See if the pet ‘takes to you’ when you first visit. This can be more than just chemistry. A kitten brought up in a shed may dislike being around people family home. A shy pet may not be right for you. Cats, in particular, need to be playful – like the Maine Coon breed. This is where matchmaking plays its part. Every breed is different, with traits stretching way back in history. Golden Retrievers are patient, if you are up for the exercise. For cleverness and kidfriendliness, a Collie is a great dog, although its over-protectiveness may be an issue. Cocker Spaniels do not like to be teased. Poodles can be placid and loving. And remember breed considerations affect cats too. Once you have narrowed down your selection, do the food and exercise sums, research any inherent health problems, especially for pedigree animals, and then look at your family diary to see if you have time for the walking, grooming, hoovering up and, of course, cuddles that a pet brings.

You need to be fair to both your family and your prospective furry friend. Get it right and it could be the best thing you ever did!

Emilie Heyl is UK Manager at Wamiz, a pet information website with a tool that plays matchmaker for owners and dogs, plus information on which cat breed is right for you. For more information, visit www.wamiz.co.uk