Carefully Considering Your Potential Pet

By Megan Mayes

Bringing home a new pet is a big decision, one that should be made with a lot of thought and care for your preferences as well as for the well-being of the animal. Picking the right pet is crucial to the success of the relationship you build. By checking your own wants against the characteristics of your pet, you can avoid any disappointment or regret. Unfulfilled expectations are a common reason why people end up giving their pets away. Using this guide along with some personal reflections can help ensure you and your future pet will be happy together!

MAPLE

Submitted by Melinda Takano

How much time do you spend at home each day and how much time can you devote to pet care? Every pet’s needs are different, but all animals will need daily time for feeding and bonding at a minimum. Some animals also require daily cleaning or outdoor exercise. Evaluating your lifestyle and what you are able to offer can help you decide what kind of pet you are realistically able to support.

FINLEY ARTEMIS

Submitted by Deb Miller

To start with, what is your budget for a pet? Whether you purchase or adopt, you will most likely have to pay for your pet but also all of the care items they require. Beyond your initial investment, you will also need to be financially able to provide food, toys, comfort items, training, 1 grooming, and health care on a regular basis. Make sure you account for your new pet in your weekly or monthly budget plan.

KYOKO

Submitted by Kirsten and Michael Mennerich

What sort of relationship do you want with your pet? Are you looking for a snuggle buddy to keep you warm on the couch, or an adventure buddy who will travel and play? Are you looking for a particular species of fish or bird because you like their appearance? Whatever it may be, make sure the things you want are actually characteristics of the pet you choose. You should also consider the other relationships in your new pet’s life, such as children and other pets.

JAYDEN

Submitted by Audrey & Aaron Ewen

HERE ARE SOME COMMON PETS AND SOME OF THEIR SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS:

Puppies and Dogs: Puppies are cute and fun, but they are a lot of work and require a lot of attention and time. Dogs are good for families becаuse their personalities are already developed. Make sure you are okay with dog hair and accidents in the house. Your dog will need several hours of attention and exercise each day.

Kittens and Cats: Some cats are social and snuggly, some are more aloof or independent. No matter their personality, cats need daily attention, playtime, and petting to avoid boredom. You will need to accept a litter box in your home and potential wearand-tear caused by scratching. Adopting an older cat can help you get a feel for their individual personality.

Hamsters, Gerbils, and Mice: Although many parents choose a small mammal as a pet for their children, it is often not a good fit. These animals are often nocturnal, so they sleep during the day and play at night. They are also fast and agile, so they are not easy to hold. Although less conventional than hamsters, rats are actually social creatures that love human interaction. Thoroughly research your small mammal pet before you commit.

ROSIE

Submitted by Amanda Spiller

Based on information from Best Friends Animal Society and Denver Dumb Friends League | resources.bestfriends.org and ddfl.org