Making the decision to bring a pet into your life can be an extremely rewarding one. Pets make fantastic companions and can quickly become part of the family. But before you pick out a leash, take these points into account.
Choosing a Pet: What You Need to Know
Consider your lifestyle: Do you work late or travel often? Consider taking in a more independent pet choice. Cats, fish or birds are low maintenance and require little space.
Talk to your landlord: Find out about any required pet deposits or weight limits. Some apartment buildings allow only small pets and others don’t allow pets at all. Be sure to get written permission and update your lease accordingly.
Know your space: Sure, that Golden Lab may be an adorable cuddly pup, but will he be happy in a tiny space once he’s fully grown? Are there pet-friendly parks in your neighborhood? Make sure your pet can get plenty of fresh air and exercise nearby if you don’t have your own large yard area.
Check your budget: Pets require regular health visits and grooming, as well as nutritious meals and snacks. Be sure to work that into your weekly and monthly budgets before adopting.
Visit local shelters: If you’re sure you’re ready to bring home a pet, consider visiting local shelters instead of pet shops and breeders. Many shelters will let you adopt an animal for very little money in the interest of finding them a good home. You can expect to find a variety of pets from puppies and kittens to fully grown breeds. Check your local directory for shelters in your area.
