We think that there is an animal fit for each of us. Sometimes we know what we want, but sometimes we are not sure and we need guidance, but we should always make sure that the animal we choose is right for our family and our life style. Some dogs are more active and prefer lots of activities, while others are more laid-back and wish to relax next to you and nothing more.
You should think about the temperament of the animal, the structure of your family, the type of the home you're living in and the type of activities you will enjoy together.
Animals are part of the family
Those who live by themselves have the advantage of taking decisions easier, but when you live with someone else, it’s recommended that you all discuss before you introduce a new member in the family. You should take note if they all agree and if any of them has a medical problem that could put their life in danger with an animal around, like an allergy. It is very important that the new animal is welcome with love by everyone in a place he can adapt to and where he can be a member of the family for the rest of its life.
Introducing a new fur baby in a family with children is beneficial for both children and pets. But the decision should be taken thoughtfully. The animal should have a personality that tolerates the usual curiosity of children or the unpredictable ways of children to show love of animals, like hugging them or petting them too roughly. Pet introduction should be made carefully, so that both the child and the animal understand the changes in their lives and respect each other’s space.
Space and level of energy
It’s not a surprise to anyone that if you have an active style of life and love running or hiking, an animal with more energy is right for you. Nor it is that if you like spending your time inside your home and you prefer slow-paced walks, you should welcome by your side a calm dog or cat to sleep at your feet or even on the couch next to you. You and your life style should meet the animal’s requirements for their well-being. That means, of course, space that doesn’t make him feel restrained.
It is not recommended for an active dog to live in a small apartment, but not all dogs need a house with garden, since there are dogs of different sizes that easily adapt to apartment life if they get the amount of activity that matches their level of activity.
Cats have special requirements according to their level of energy too. Some cats will lay around all day, but the active ones should have the possibility to use up their energy with the help of a play enrichment or in the company of other animals.
How to choose a pet of the right age
Most people want a puppy or a kitten, because on top of being cute, they want it to grew with them, to adapt with the family and home. What anyone should know is that any pet, regardless of age, can adapt quicker or slower, depending on many factors, like temperament or the previous environment.
When introducing a baby pet into your home, you should be prepared and patient, especially during teething period, when the gums itch and the baby pet wants to chew on everything to calm the pain. A young pet will pass through adolescent period, which can be tougher depending on their temperament. An adult already knows some things and doesn’t feel the need to chew on everything in sight. Don’t forget that all adults were once babies and any animal is a baby only for a small part of their life.
You probably noticed that some of the paragraphs above overlap in some place. For example, there are big dogs fit for apartment or puppies that are not fit for a laid-back family. We can’t choose a pet without considering all the aspects regarding our life. We have to see beyond appearance and make the right choice.
Choosing a pet is only the beginning. The next thing you should know is what to expect after adoption.