Getting a New Pet

So you've decided to get a new dog or cat. Good for you! But before you run out and buy the first cute cuddly animal you see, you would be wise to ask yourself some basic questions first.

Get Real
Is this your first dog or cat? If so, you may want to talk to other pet owners to be sure you have a realistic idea of what you are getting yourself into.

Remember that this is a long-term commitment, 16-17 years for a dog and as much as 20 or more for a cat!

Consider the Costs
Whether this is your first pet or your twentieth, make sure your budget can handle it. Don't forget pet food, vet expense, possible boarding or pet sitting, groomers, toys (!) and other pet supplies.

Think About Others
If you are adding to a household of pets, consider the ones you already have. Will they accept another animal? Most dogs and cats can learn to live with each other eventually, but some will have a harder time adjusting than others. Planning ahead for the introductions and potential problems will ease the way considerably.

Consult Your Blackberry
Check your schedules, do you have time to train a puppy or untrained adult dog? Will you be home all day for at least the first few days after you bring the animal home? Can you make arrangements for daycare if necessary while you are at work or school?

Is Your Lifestyle Pet-Friendly?
If you are renting, are pets allowed? Are you planning to move in the near future?

Be sure to look at your lifestyle and environment. Consider the size of your home and yard, if any; whether or not you have children, your level of activity, and so on.

The Nitty Gritty of Pet Ownership
Once you have reviewed your situation and are certain that this is the right time for a new pet, then the question becomes "What breed of dog or cat is right for us?"

Beware of choosing a breed based on looks or popularity. The shelters are full of Dalmatians that were brought in when they didn't live up to the expectations of viewers of "One Hundred and One Dalmatians", or Jack Russell Terriers that aren't quite as responsive as "Eddie".

Remember that all puppies are cute, and that canine and feline actors are highly trained animals that also benefit from Hollywood tricks, special effects and editing.

Dalmatians for example, are high-energy dogs that are difficult to train, especially for beginners. They are not the best with children.

Is a Pure-Bred Dog or Cat Necessary?
Unless you are looking to show or breed the animal, there is really no reason to choose a particular breed. There is a lot to be said for mixed-breed dogs.
For one thing, they are abundant in shelters, which means you will have no trouble finding a dog or cat you like. And adopting a "second-hand" dog or cat saves that animals life!

Mixed breed dogs and cats tend to be healthier. Since most genetic anomalies and predispositions to disease are carried on recessive genes, mixed breeds will be less likely to inherit these traits.

Often times you get the best of both worlds - or at least the best of both breeds. The animals will usually exhibit the most predominant traits of their breeds so knowing something about the different breeds will tell you something about the animal you are considering. Of course, it is not always easy to tell what breeds are involved!
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When choosing your new pet, look for an animal that has the traits that you find desirable in a dog or cat. If you go to shelters looking for personality type instead of breed, you will have a much better chance of finding a dog or cat that suits you.

Make a List
To help you choose when visiting shelters, dog trainer and author Pat Miller suggests making a list with three columns. Label the columns "Must Have", "Would Like to Have", and "Must Not Have". Spend some time thinking about and discussing with your family what traits and attributes you like and don't like, and what is most important to you.

If you are unsure, talk to other dog owners, trainers and breeders. Go to dog or cat shows and watch the animals in action.

Take your list with you to the shelters, or keep it in front of you if you are looking at classified ads. Stick to the list and take your time in deciding on your next best friend.

If you have your heart set on a specific breed, and you have done your research and know that the breed is right for you and your lifestyle, then you might want to consider looking for a rescue group for that breed. There are many such groups available.

Find a Dog Rescue Group in Your Area

Find a Cat Rescue Group in Your Area

May you and your new pet have a long and happy life together.

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