How to Pick the Perfect Pet

Pets can bring great joy into their owners' lives, but they can also bring unexpected results. Many new owners find themselves regretting a decision based more on a pet's adorable appeal than on an educated and thoughtful choice. Before choosing the pet for you, consider all of the factors of pet ownership. Use the following 10 questions to determine which pet best fits your lifestyle. A little planning will ensure a happy union for you and your adopted animal.

1. Why do I want a pet? Maybe you are looking for a constant companion, or you may want something that's more decorative. That may mean the difference between a cat and a fish. Perhaps you are interested in a pet that is less common, something that reflects your individuality. Consider exotic birds, reptiles or spiders. There are alternatives that fall in the middle, animals that are cute and cuddly without the maintenance a dog requires. These choices include small mammals like hamsters and guinea pigs. Explore the reason that you desire to introduce a pet into your home and determine if it's one that is fair to you and the animal you want to adopt.

2. What do I know about the pet I want? Take the time to learn as much as you can about the pet you plan to get. Read articles, ask a veterinarian and talk to people who currently or previously owned this type of animal. Prepare questions that are important to you and your family. Here are some starters:
- Does the animal shed?
- Is the breed characteristically good with children or can it be aggressive?
- Would this pet get along well with my other pets?
- What and how much do I need to feed it?
- Can I buy pet supplies for it anywhere, or do I need to go to a specialty store?
- Does this type of pet require registration where I live?
- What about healthcare? Vaccinations? Spaying or neutering?
- How often will it need my attention?

These questions should get you started, but keep in mind that the answers should be responsibly considered. If you discover that the kinkajou you just had to have frequently bites and you have an aversion to emergency rooms, that pet may not be a good fit. Similarly, reconsider the albino python if you can't bear to feed it live mice, or the Great Dane to guard your one-bedroom apartment. Sometimes the pet of your dreams is just not suitable for your situation.

3. How much time can I devote to its care? Here's where you have to be honest with yourself. If you like to sleep in and aren't used to waking during the night, a puppy may not be for you. Nor is a dog or any other animal that requires a lot of its owner's attention a good pet for someone with little time to give. It's unfair to you and the pet to neglect its needs in any way, whether it is getting to a regular vet check-up or providing exercise and play time. Don't kid yourself into thinking that your son or daughter really will take care of them, either. Owning a pet is a responsibility that many adults cannot handle.

4. What living arrangements can I offer my pet? Whether it's a cage, tank, kennel or yard, your pet will need a place to call his own. Carefully consider your current living arrangement and the needs of the animal you choose. If you are renting, go over your rental agreement for clauses regarding pets. If pets are allowed at all, most landlords charge a fee to the owners. Be sure that you have accommodations for your pet not only when it is confined, but also when it needs exercise or to relieve itself. When figuring out the space your pet requires, factor in any money that may require from you. A proper kennel for a Labrador may cost $75 or more.

5. Am I prepared to bring a pet home? Now that you know what you need, do you have it? Many people get so excited to bring their pet home that they forget to have the necessities in place first. Though it may provide your first opportunity to proudly walk your new family member through the aisles of the local pet superstore, your pet may not appreciate all of the new experiences of adoption and public display in its first day with you. Plan ahead and have the staples ready and waiting for Fido, Spike or Muffy. You will appreciate it your preparedness as much as they will.

6. Does a pet fit my budget? If you've considered getting a pet at all you probably have an idea of how much the animal itself costs. Pets can be very expensive to buy; even rescuing a stray from the local shelter can run over $100 for fees and deposits for spaying or neutering. What you may not realize is how much your pet will cost you annually. A large dog can quickly go through a 40-pound bag of kibble and will cost more for healthcare and boarding than smaller breeds. An exotic animal may have special needs that take a bite out of your paycheck. Don't forget any auxiliary costs, such as training, toys and replacing your best pair of shoes.

7. Who will care for my pet in my absence? Depending on the animal you choose, this may be a small issue. Fish can go days without a feeding and your hamster won't be dying to go outside if you're gone for a while. Some pets just need someone to check on them once a day, to replenish food and water. Other pets may need to stay with someone else or be boarded. If you want your pet to accompany you on a trip, keep in mind what that will entail. Will the pet fit comfortably in the car (and will the humans be comfortable with that)? Is traveling safe for that animal? If you're flying, can your pet go to? Some airlines allow certain smaller pets in the cabin, and larger pets kenneled in the cargo space. Do your research most airlines cut off cargo traveling, which is usually not climate-controlled, for pets when the weather is too hot or cold.

8. Whom else in my household a new pet will affect? Adopting a pet is no time to think only about yourself. You already know that the animal also requires special consideration, but did you think about other members of your household? Be certain that no one has a strong aversion to the animal you choose, or has a history of allergies that may be affected. Consider other pets you may have as well. Will Fluffy mind if there's a new kitten on the block? You may want to try out a trial run before committing to an adoption.

9. What external reasons may affect my decision? Do a little soul-searching. Are you getting a pet because you just lost your canine companion of seven years? You may not be ready to jump back into pet ownership so quickly, and your new companion may not understand how to measure up. Are you going through a major life event? Job troubles, divorce and loss of a family member often prompt people to look for pets to provide emotional support in that warm, fuzzy, non-judgmental way they do. It's important to determine if your situation will be stable enough for the long haul before trying to fill a void prematurely. Did your significant other proclaim that you could never have a cat as long as you were together? Picking out the perfect Siamese may sound tempting just be sure you're ultimately doing it for the right reasons.

10. Can I offer the level of commitment required? All of these questions prepare you for the final test: Can you provide your pet with a good home and a caring owner? Whether you choose a ferret or an iguana, make that choice by matter-of-factly matching you and an appropriate animal using knowledge and logic. Once you've done that, you can go ahead and pick your particular pet with your heart.