How to Choose a Pet

You are feeling lonely and would like a companion who will be accepting, loyal, and less attractive than you. Where can you find a friend like this? Why, the pet store of course! However, we're not all animal people and we don't always have time for a pet. Here's how you can choose the type of pet that will be best for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A pen and paper
• A sense of realism

1. Consider any allergies or fears of pests you may have. If you are allergic to cat dander, you obviously wouldn't want to get a feline. Afraid of fleas? Dogs and cats often contract them. Scales give you a rash? No cold blooded friends for you.

2. Be realistic about how much time you have to devote to a pet. It can take a lot of time and attention to housebreak a puppy or litter train a cat. If you do not have a lot of time for training a pet or cleaning up after one, you may want to choose a species that can be kept in a cage or terrarium.

3. Decide if you can stomach cleaning up your new pets' little accidents. This isn't limited to puppy pee or cat puke. Even a fish tank requires some cleaning. If you do not like to clean, you may want to consider a pet rock.

4. Think about how much you value your quiet time. If you would like something that you can talk to that will make minimal noise in return, a fish or turtle may be your best bet. Or of course that rock.

5. Now that you've considered what type of pet you have the time and patience for, narrow down your list to one or two options.

6. Research pet stores for the best deal. Having a pet doesn't have to break your bank.

7. Choose your pet, give it a name, and give it all the tender loving care it deserves.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a long time to decide whether you really want a pet and are in it for the long haul. If you may not want this pet throughout the duration of its life span, get the pet rock.

[brainwashed79]

on 2/25/2009 please, no pet stores! animals there are often sick and always overpriced.

[bmi57]

on 11/21/2007 Nice article, thanks for the ideas.