How to Pick a Family Pet

Buying Your First Pet

If the fur is flying in your house over the decision to purchase a Rottweiler or a rabbit for a first-time family pet you need to take the following points into consideration:

1. Size-The size of the pet you buy must be appropriate for your living space. If you do not own your own home you should check with your landlord to confirm that pets are allowed. Someone landlords are willing to allow pets under a 25 pound weight limit. Some landlords won't allow any pets at all. They do not differentiate between parrots or pit bulls. They just don't allow pets in their rentals.
2. Breed-Make sure you research the breed you are planning to buy. Some animals make better pets than others. If you have small children what you buy should be done with them in mind.
3. Vacations-A pet is a major responsibility. If you travel heavily for work you should have someone who is responsible to care for your pet while you're away.
4. Cost-Animals cost money to own. Does your budget allow for the cost of veterinary bills, obedience school if necessary, grooming and food?
5. Research-You should never buy a pet on impulse. You need to make sure that the animal will fit in to your household in a seamless manner.

Who Will Be Responsible for the Pet?

This is an important question that must be decided before the pet enters the home. Will the teenager who just can't live without a dog be willing to walk it in subzero weather?

Will the 10-year-old who has begged you for an aquarium be around to help you clean it regularly?

Will your husband finally finish the fence he's been promising to build to ensure a safe environment for your pet?

Delegating responsibility to family members about pet care is important. A well cared for animal is a happy one and an asset to any family.

Good First-time Family Pets

• Gerbils
• Hamsters
• Rabbits
• Birds
• Fish
• Cats
• Dogs

Teaching the Family Good Pet Manners

• Parents should teach their children proper behavior and respect towards the family pet.

• Children should be told that pets should not be squeezed, dropped or picked up too quickly.

• They should also be warned against pulling ears and tails as a way to play.

• Children should also be warned that animals need time to adjust to new environment. They should not approach the animal quickly or bother them if they are eating or sleeping.

• Teach children not to stress their pets with unwanted behavior or inappropriate attention.

• Young children should never be left unsupervised with certain pets. Dogs and cats can nip and scratch without meaning to.

• Certain animals such as: turtles, snakes, lizards, and iguanas can transmit salmonella through their feces. The most important lesson that you should teach your children is too frequently hand wash after playing with their pet.