by Melissa Reid

Created on: May 04, 2008   Last Updated: September 09, 2010

Being a responsible pet owner is not only about responsibilities, it's also about having fun! Owning a pet can be quite rewarding whether you are a small child, a single parent or just someone looking for some company. Pets can be great companions and long-term friends for many types of people. In order for a person to adopt that "perfect match" in a pet, one should do some homework.

There are certain things you must know about your new friend before you set out to take him or her home with you. All different breeds of animals share different traits and qualities that may or may not fit your needs as a new "parent". Some pets will require more exercise than others, some will be harder to train therefore needing more "mommy or daddy" time, and others just may not be the correct fit for you. In order to be a responsible pet owner you will need to take a careful look into finding that correct fit in a pet for you. Ask yourself questions such as "How much time will I have to spend with my new pet?" and "Can I afford to become a pet owner?". Keeping your new pet healthy will require vaccinations and regular check ups with a veterinarian which can sometimes leave your pocketbook on the short side.

If after doing your homework you have come to the decision you have found the correct type of pet for your home, now you need to go shopping. Before you bring the new addition to your family home, you will need to make sure you have everything you need to make your new pet feel like one of the family. Any kind of pet you choose will need to have some things of their own:

1. Food
2. Bowls or dishes for food and water
3. Treats (work well when training animals such as dogs)
4. Toys
5. Collar with registration tags (if your new pet is a dog or cat)
6. Bed

Pets will be most happy when they feel safe and secure in their own beds so you will want to make sure they have a nice comfy place to sleep. You will also want to make sure the toys you buy your pet are appropriate for their size and weight so they don't swallow too small pieces or hurt themselves on toys too big for them.

There are many places to find a new pet. You can choose from pet stores, animal adoption centers, rescue shelters or even an ad in the newspaper. Wherever you decide to get your new pet from, you will want to do a little research on the establishment you pick as well. Make sure it is a respected store, or if you go with a rescue shelter that the animal is clean and healthy. Ask questions to the seller about your new animal and get all the information you can before you make your decision.

Once you bring your new friend home, the main thing to remember is to have fun! Love your new pet as if it were family and treat it with respect. Pets can and will bring many joys to your life. Your pet will see you through the best and the worst of times and will stick with you through anything as long as it feels loved. Remember, your pet will be as loyal to you as you let it.

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