Pets are family members. We don’t always get to choose the human family members, but we can choose which pets to adopt. There are so many adorable faces and sorrowful stories. Options are endless and often overwhelming. So, how should you choose what pets are right for you?
When thinking about adopting, there are many factors to consider. First, you have to take into account how much free time you and your family members have.
Some pets, such as dogs, require a lot of attention and time commitment. “My dog needs a lot of attention. If my family and I didn’t have enough time, my dog would often get depressed,“ Angel Tam, a senior, said.
Indeed, if you don’t have much time in a day to walk, play, and train these feline companions, you might want to consider pets that require less attention, such as some cat breeds, fish, and reptiles.
The second important factor is your living space. If you are living in a rental house, you would have to discuss your landlord’s pet policy. Furthermore, the size of your home is also a significant aspect.
If you live in a small apartment space, large dog breeds such as Cane Corso are not advised, as they need space to move around. Meanwhile, smaller dog breeds, guinea pigs, hamsters, and cats would be a great option.
The next key consideration is financial commitment. “My dog definitely needs some financial commitment. It’s not a lot, but if you’re living from paycheck to paycheck, it’s going to be hard to keep them comfortable,” Tam said.
Pets come with large expenses like food, vet bills, grooming, and accessories. If you are not financially secure, larger pets and exotic animals would not be the most optimal choice because they often require more costly care.
Another factor is activity level and energy preference. Each animal has a different personality. If you prefer a pet that is energetic and outgoing, some dog breeds, such as golden retrievers, rabbits, and ferrets, would be recommended. “My cats are very active. They frequently have ‘zoomies’ and like to play,” Vadim Stepovenko, a senior, said. “I always play with them, and they match my personality closely. I think they are perfect pets for me.”
Animals’ life expectancy is a crucial factor as well. Some pets, such as hamsters, fish, and chameleons, have short lifespans, some not even reaching 5 years. On the other hand, pets like turtles, dogs, cats, and parrots have long lives, truly becoming lifelong companions.
Last but not least, your experience plays an important role in this decision. First-time pet owners may find it largely difficult to look after high-maintenance pets like birds. Much better alternatives for new pet owners might be guinea pigs and fish.
“If you are a first-time pet owner, make sure you can provide the best care for your pets. Give them attention, make sure they are safe, spend time with them, and show affection,” Stepovenko said. “You will get to love them with all your heart. When I come home upset, their sight almost immediately lights my day up.”
Having pets is a big responsibility. By considering these factors, you can make better decisions and choose the right pet for your lifestyle and needs.
