Essential Pet Supplies For You and Your New Friends

     When purchasing a new pet, you need to make sure you have all the essential pet supplies. These vary by the type of pet. Below is a basic overview of the supplies you will need by pet type, but these are only the basics. Treat your pet with respect and love, and go above and beyond these essentials to ensure your pet the happiest life!

Dogs are a common pet, but not everyone knows what they need. Dog bowls, a bed or crate, collar and leash are the most basic supplies. When it comes to food, not all foods are created equal. Research food types and pay attention to its special dietary needs. Toys will keep the dog entertained.

Cats are a little easier to handle. Food bowls are needed, as with dogs, but go for stainless steel if you can, high impact plastic if you must. Your cat needs a bed that they feel comfortable with. A cat carrier may seem unnecessary for your lifestyle, but should be purchased anyway. You will need it should the cat need a vet. Posts can be worth the money and can save your couch from mischievous clawing.

Rodents can be an unexpected delight. Hamsters make especially good pets, particularly for children. Pellets are a better choice than seed, because a picky hamster may skip seeds that have some of its essential nutrients. Supply your hamster with easily replaceable, absorbent, and hamster-healthy bedding, such as wood shavings. Give it enough to dig through. Finally, make sure your hamster has something to chew on, or it will chew its cage.

If you purchase a reptile, make sure you get a good size tank. Be very wary when making this choice: too small and the reptile will be unhealthy, but too big and you can encourage certain species to grow to an unmanageable size. Water (dish or bottle) is necessary. Research food types before you choose your animal. Some species need live food (like crickets) that you will also need to provide for.

Reptiles and amphibians both need heat lamps. However, if you do find yourself owning a frog, you will need more supplies to build it a happy home. Reptiles and amphibians can benefit from good plant choices, but frogs absolutely need them. You will need a thermometer and humidity gauge. Frogs and certain reptiles (such as turtles) require clean water, and substrate, a loose floor covering for their habitat.

Fish are relatively easy to care for. They also need a tank, but they must have a pump and filter attached. A heater and thermometer are solid investments. The tank has to have a gravel lining on the bottom if you want the fish to stay healthy. Invest in a net, food flakes and cleaning supplies.

Birds need a good cage. Size and design do matter. A parrot will be cramped in a finch cage, and a finch could easily escape from a parrot cage. Wood and rope perches are good; seed is a breed specific food that you absolutely need. Treats are also breed specific.