Our Animals : Choosing a Suitable Pet

Why do you want a pet?

Before choosing a pet thought should be given to the following:

• Why do you want a pet?
• How much time are you prepared to spend on and with them?
• How much house room have you got?
• Are they suitable for children?
• How much will they cost to keep?
• Are you fit enough to keep them properly?

 

Choosing the right Dog

There's one problem with adopting a rescue dog.  The selection of available canine companions can overwhelm you! Man's best friends come in all shapes, sizes, and, of course, personalities.

The good news is that almost any rescue dog can make a wonderful, lifelong companion for you and your family, but it is vitally important that you choose the right dog for you.   The key is simply knowing what to look for. Here are a few things to think about:

Choosing the right dog generally means identifying the type of animal that matches your lifestyle and wants.

Dogs fall into one of two categories: pedigrees or crossbreeds. The only significant difference between the two is that pedigrees, because their parents and other ancestors are all members of the same breed, are similar to a specific "breed standard." This means that if you adopt a pedigree, you have a good chance of knowing about how big he will get and what general physical and behavioural characteristics he will have.

However, the size, appearance, and temperament of most crossbreed dogs can be predicted as well. After all, crossbreeds are simply combinations of different breeds. So if you know the ancestry of a particular crossbreed puppy or can identify what type of dog he is (e.g., terrier mix), you have a good chance of knowing how he'll turn out, too.

Crossbreeds offer several advantages over pedigrees. When you adopt a crossbreed, you benefit from the combined traits of two or more breeds. You also get a dog that is likely to be free of genetic defects common to certain pedigree dogs. Crossbreeds, in fact, are often considered the more "natural" dog. When you adopt a crossbreed, you adopt a totally unique companion.

When visiting the Animal Centre

While you're at the shelter, keep in mind that it is a stressful place for any animal. Quite often, a dog's true colors won't show until he's away from other animals and the shelter environment. So even if you walk past a kennel with a dog who isn't vying for your attention, don't count him out. He may just be a little scared or lonely.

Choose a Friend for Life

Every rescue dog can provide you with boundless love and companionship, and every dog certainly deserves a home for life, but some dogs are better for you and your lifestyle than others. That's why you should take the time to make a thoughtful choice. After all, you're choosing a friend who will be with you 10, 15, or even more years. Select the right dog, and you and your new companion will enjoy those years to the fullest.

Choosing the right Cat

You may have heard the saying, "You own a dog, you feed a cat." It is true that cats value their independence a bit more than dogs, but if you have ever been around cats, you already know they crave and require love and companionship.

Cats make wonderful pets and most will easily adjust to a variety of lifestyles and living spaces. Every cat is a true individual, though, so it is important to take the time to choose a four-footed friend who's right for you. A cat's personality, age, and appearance, as well as the kinds of pets you already have at home, are all things you should keep in mind when making your selection.

Kitten or Cat?

As a general rule, kittens are curious, playful, and full of energy, while adult cats are more relaxed and less mischievous. Kittens also require more time to train and feed. Cats are only kittens for a few months, though, so the age of the cat you adopt should really depend on the level of maturity you are looking for. Young children usually do not have the maturity to handle kittens responsibly, so an older cat – at least 6 months old is probably the best choice for homes with young children.

Short-haired or Long?

Cats can have long, fluffy coats or short, dense fur, and the choice between the two is chiefly a matter of preference, availability, and your willingness to devote time to regular grooming. Bear in mind that long-haired cats require frequent grooming to be mat-free.

Room for One More

If you already own a cat or dog, you are probably wondering how easy it is to add a cat to the family. The good news is that cats can get along with other cats and—despite the common stereotype—most dogs can get along with cats. The bad news is, introducing a new cat to a home with other pets will require some patience on your part.

Be Responsible!

As a  responsible cat owner you should have your female cat spayed or your male cat neutered. Spaying or neutering will ensure that your cat never adds to the millions of animals born each year who never find a good home. It will also help him or her live a longer, healthier life.

Adopt a Cat for Life

Finally, remember that you're making a commitment to love and care for your new pet for his or her lifetime—which could mean 10, 15, even 20 years. So choose your new friend carefully and be a responsible pet owner. In no time at all, you will know how wonderful sharing your home with a cat can be.