by Silva Payne

Created on: May 04, 2009   Last Updated: February 21, 2010

Pets can be a great source of companionship, comfort and joy, or they can be a drain on your resources of time, money and furnishings. Pets are more likely to fall into the first category if the prospective pet owner gives some thought to the type of pet that will suit them, before they go out and buy it. With than in mind, pets really should not be given as gifts. Even if the recipient has expressed an interest in owning a parrot, a terrapin or a Great Dane, it does not mean they are ready, willing and able to take on the responsibility when you present them with one.

A good starting point is to think about why you want a pet at all. Having a pet is very similar to having a child: they are dependent on you for almost everything, and need arrangements made for substitute care of some kind if you go away and cannot take them with you. They may need special food, housing or bedding, and they may get sick and need expensive treatment. This does not stop people having children, and it need not stop you having a pet, as long as you are prepared for the basics. If you are looking for companionship, then a pet that you can interact with would be preferable. If you are looking for a novelty, then an exotic species could be for you. Never believe that you will be getting a pet for your child to take care of! Pets and children soon grow tired of each other, and it is always the parent who has to take responsibility for the pet eventually.

Once you have decided on why you want a pet, you should consider where you are going to accommodate one (or them, as some will come in packs, groups, shoals, or flocks!). What space do you have for bedding or housing, will the pet be confined to a specific part of your home, how easy will it be to get the pet outside if needed? If the pet is not contained in some way, how do you feel about possible damage to your furnishings or flooring? Just as children sometimes crayon on walls, pets can rip coverings and chew on table legs. If the pet will be outside, is your garden secure? Can you afford adequate housing of an appropriate size, design and quality for the pet?

Your lifestyle will play an important part in what kind of pet will suit you and your family if you have one. Active people who spend a lot of time outdoors should consider pets that will not mind or notice that they are gone from the house all day, or pets that can safely and easily be active with their owners. Families who already have much of their days accounted for

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