If you’re contemplating sharing your life with a new companion animal, you will be faced with a lot of choices, including species, sex, and breed. And if you seek advice, you may get conflicting information, depending on the source of that advice – most people tend to give you advice that is based on their personal experience rather than on factual information.
Once you have narrowed down your choice to the particular species of animal, you are then faced with the decision as to whether or not you should get a purebred animal. Part of the decision may be financial, since purebred pets can be more costly to purchase, especially if they come from a reputable breeder, while pets from a humane society or animal shelter may be more economical for the initial purchase. Another factor that should always be considered is whether you are willing to adopt a homeless animal from a shelter situation or an animal rescue organization rather than getting a new puppy or kitten.
Birds, reptiles, rabbits, hamsters, mice, and other small mammals can be a good choice for some families since they can be housed in a cage and are quiet pets that do not require a lot of exercise. Cats can be good for families that are busy, provided the family is willing to devote some time to the cat every day. Dogs are one of the more demanding pets, but can also be one of the most rewarding pets to share your home with, since they require regular exercise and require social interaction with their human family. No matter what, an animal should never be given as a special occasion gift (auch as an Easter or Christmas present, or a birthday present), unless the giver and receiver both agree that the animal represents a life-long commitment for its care.
If you decide on a purebred dog or cat, the next choice may be more difficult to make since there are so many well-established breeds. By definition, a purebred dog or cat will "breed true" or produce predictable offspring if mated with another member of the same breed. By this definition, some of the newly popular types of dogs, including labradoodles, shih-poos, terri-poos and puggles, are not purebred, even though they may carry a significantly higher price tag than their purebred counterparts.
When you opt for a purebred animal, you can have a good idea of what their ultimate size, shape, and temperament will be. You can also find out information as to potential health problems that are common in that breed, so that you can be a more informed consumer. Reputable breeders screen their breeding stock for breed-specific problems, breed selectively to optimize the health of their animals, and follow-up on the health of their animals. Often, breeders will also provide a health guarantee to purchasers.
No matter what you decide is the best option for you, it is vital that you do your research prior to "shopping" for your new pet. Don’t be swayed by an impulse decision to buy that cute puppy, kitten, bunny, or chick unless you are willing to share your home with it. In addition to getting information from specific breeders, friends, neighbours and humane societies, which will by its very nature be biased by personal experience, you should seek unbiased advice from sources such as your veterinarian or a kennel club. In this way, you will have the best chance of getting a new furry or feathered friend that fits your lifestyle and needs.
