Pet Question And Answer... Expert Help To Find The Best Pet For You

*Question: What is the best way to choose the pet that is right for my family?

First, never buy a pet on impulse. Bringing home a kitten or puppy just because it was adorable is seldom a good idea.

Sit down and discuss the matter of pets with your family first. Don't forget to consider the following in your discussion: grooming, playtime, personal attention, veterinary care, daily feeding and house training (if applicable). You may also want to ask each family member why they want a pet. Be sure your children understand that a pet is another family member, not just a toy, and the pet's needs must be considered as much as other family members' needs.

Next, review your lifestyle. Assuming, for example, you live in a city apartment or work long hours. In this particular situation it may be best to consider a pet such as a bird, a cat or maybe even a fish. If you do a lot of jogging or running, then a dog might be appropriate for you.

If you'd like to understand the needs of a potential pet, you can talk to breeders and other pet owners. Another good resource is to attend local pet shows and talk to the judges. Use Google to search for specific breeds to learn more about the pet you are thinking of purchasing. It goes without saying that you should consider the ages of your children when planning to purchase a new pet. Not only this, but consider the life expectancy of the pet for bonding purposes.

*Question: Should I get a pet from a shelter or a pet store?

Some people swear by animal shelters, while others prefer pet stores. Weighing the two, I feel it is advisable to get pets from a shelter. The animals are well-cared for by the staff and are aware of an environment involving people. The shelter's staff will tell you about the animals' temperament so that you can find the pet that will be well-suited to you and your family. The staff can tell you which dog enjoys long walks, or which animal loves children, or which cat likes to curl up on your lap. Furthermore, animals from a shelter have already been checked and have received all of their needed immunizations, and have already been neutered or spayed.

If, instead, you decide to look for a pet from a pet store, be sure that you get the pet store owner to give you a full briefing of the animal's disposition, primarily for dogs, cats and other animals that will have plenty of interacation with humans.

*Question: What is the best way to decide what type of dog is best for me?

Use the following as a guide for finding the perfect dog for you:

- Find and read pet guides to learn about a certain dog breed's background or personality or temperament. Surf the internet for online guides that tell you about those family-friendly breeds of dogs.

- Consult a veterinarian to discuss details about the characteristics and temperament of the breed you are looking for. Ask questions to understand more about it.

- If you are planning on purchasing a puppy at a pet store, be sure to ask for the dog's status -- such as the dog's origin or breed's anomalies or physical problems or behavioral problems. If you prefer not to use the local pet store, you can also get dogs or puppies from animal shelters or from a private breeder.

- Lastly, ask for your friends' assessments and experiences with various types of dogs they have owned.