Choosing the Best Pet for Your Lifestyle
14 Nov 2009
There are those who have time on their hands and those who have very little, some are out of the home for days on end whilst other homes are always occupied. We’re all different, but if you are looking to bring a pet into your life you really need to ensure that you are able to provide it with the environment it needs to thrive.
The good news is that there is a pet for everybody. Not all animals need lots of care and attention; some can be left to their own devices over prolonged periods of time without a problem. But with most it is about temperament and needs. For most, the first choice when it comes to a pet is either a dog or a cat. Offering companionship as well as bringing life to the home, they are a clear favourite. However, as you are probably already fully aware, there are numerous breeds of both cats and dogs, each with their own unique requirements and behavioural attributes that need to be taken into account.
Some dog breeds are full of life and need continuous attention. Jack Russells and Collies are two examples of outdoor dogs that are happiest with plenty of attention and chasing around in large expanses. Others though are more docile and happier to stay around the family home; these include retrievers and many hounds.
When you’ve also got children in the house you need to consider whether the animal you choose is going to have the temperament that is suitable for them. All too often there are stories of dogs who have a naturally defensive attitude lashing out at youngsters, causing either serious injury or, in some cases, even death. Most animals are absolutely fine, but some are more prone to lash out than others; Pit Bull and Staffordshire Terriers being two examples.
Cats, like dogs are all very different; however, many have their own unique personality that goes beyond simple breed type. Whilst there are those that are happy roaming the streets for hours or even days on their own, others prefer companionship and won’t venture beyond the boundaries of your home. It’s worth researching whether the cat you get is likely to be the former or the latter, so that you can ensure it fits in with your own lifestyle. If you’re looking to get a feline or canine friend for your home you should consider pet insurance. This is a fantastic way to ensure that your pet is covered for all eventualities and you won’t be stuck with any difficult decisions further down the line. Dog insurance will cover your pooch for all operations (up to a certain ceiling limit) and may even include extras such as holiday coverage. Cat insurance is equally comprehensive, ensuring veterinary bills are never prohibitive to your pets health and wellbeing.
Beyond the most popular pet types there is a whole world of animals to choose from. Small rodents are particularly popular with families that don’t have the space (or the budget) for a larger animal. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice and even rats have been favourites with children for years. They are safe, docile critters and won’t eat you out of house and home (hopefully), which is what makes them particularly good for families. Their small size and limited requirements make these fluffy creatures perfect for those with limited room at home. Often all they require is a hutch, a run and a regular clean out. Food wise they aren’t too fussy either, plus many landlords won’t mind if you get a rabbit or guinea pig as they don’t come with the same issues that larger animals like a dog might.
Reptiles too are increasing in popularity. Snakes and lizards offer a compelling alternative to the usual choice of pets, although they are often expensive to purchase – particularly rarer varieties – and require specialist housing. Whilst a snake might eat mice and other small rodents, a lizard – such as a chameleon or gecko – will be satisfied with large bugs and specialist food.
It goes without saying that some snakes are dangerous. Even non-venomous varieties can bite and constrict. This means that they shouldn’t really come into contact with very small children and babies.
A tortoise, turtle or terrapin might provide a solution though. Again they are incredibly easy to maintain, requiring just vegetation and the occasional treat. They may cost quite a bit to obtain, but should live for many years without any issues.
If that’s too much then why not fish. An aquarium is hugely relaxing for the living room, whilst an outdoor pond makes a fantastic water feature for the garden. There are all sorts of varieties available from the humble goldfish to exotic tropical fish of all shades and colours. Again these are a fantastic solution for people with limited space and shouldn’t contravene too many tenancy agreements either.
Things to consider when choosing your pet:
- Do you have the space it needs?
- Does it have a suitable temperament for your home?
- Does it have any specialist requirements?
- Do you have the time to look after it?
- Have you researched it thoroughly to ensure it is compatible with your lifestyle?
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