Selecting A Pet
Choosing a pet can be a big commitment. What is the right pet for my lifestyle? What costs are involved with owning a pet? Where you live, if you have kids, how much time you have to commit to a pet, grooming involved, allergies to certain animals, and veterinary care involved are all important factors to consider when choosing a pet. Researching the breeds you like while keeping these questions in mind will help you to better determine what breed is right for you and will help in producing a life-long friend and family member.
DOGS: A dog will demand time, attention, space, exercise, training, and money. When choosing a dog, research the breed and what that breed was originally bred to do. This will give you incite into what their personality may be and how much exercise they may need. All dogs need training. Training will give your dog basic commands and make them more compatible with your and your lifestyle.
CATS: A cat is more low-maintenance requiring less time for socialization.
EXOTIC PETS: Rabbits and ferrets can be low-maintenance but require daily interaction for attention and exercise.
POCKET PETS: Small birds, chinchillas, fish, reptiles, guinea pigs, or rats/ mice are good companions that are easier and less expensive to care for.
If you rent, you will need to make sure you know what pets are allowed and requirements involved. Taking space into consideration is important if you have a small house or small yard. A large dog will require more space (or at least a bigger time commitment to give him/her the exercise needed).
Any breed of animal can be good with kids. A dog can be great with kids as long as you dedicate time into training the dog and the kids on how to interact with the dog. You will need to supervise the dog and children during interactions. Every dog has its "breaking point" – even dogs that have been good with children.
If you are gone most of the day, or unable to stop home during the day; a dog may not be the best choice for you. Unless you are able to pay for a "doggie daycare", you may be better getting a cat or smaller pet. Also, keep in mind when you leave town, someone will need to take care of your pets. You may need to pay someone to watch your animals in your house or at a boarding facility.
All pets need daily interactions. A cat requires daily interactions of at least 15 minutes with their human counterparts. All dogs require daily walks off the property (to aid in mental stimulation so they don't get bored) and exercise; although some breeds (both large and small) will require more or less time depending on the breed.
Some animals require more grooming than others. How much time you have in your day for grooming can impact what type of animal to get. Cats and some breed of dogs require some grooming on a daily basis. Some require weekly grooming or trips to the groomer every 6-8 weeks. Even some short haired dogs shed, requiring you to bathe them regularly to cut down on shedding or brushing to help with the excess hair.
If you suspect anyone in the house may have allergies, it is important to find out prior to adoption. If you do have allergies to a certain type of animal (dogs for example), it may not mean you cannot own that animal. Some breeds are less likely to cause allergic reactions than others (shed less, less dander) that may make them a viable option for you and your family.
There are the basic veterinary care costs of vaccinations and annual check-ups for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Also keep in mind the cost of a high quality pet food (dogs can range $20-40/ month, cats approximately $15/month). Your first year of veterinary care will cost more due to the vaccination series and neuter or spay surgery. If you choose a cat and decide on declawing, that is an additional cost. For a full list of prices call us at (701) 232-3391 or e-mail at tech@valleyveterinary.net. Also keep in mind that emergencies do arise during a pet's life that can require treatments, hospitalization, or daily medications.
- You are responsible for your pet's health. You will need to pay for adequate veterinary care thru-out your pets life
- If you get a dog for protection, you are obligated to make sure that it is safe, reliable, and trustworthy around people.
- You are responsible for your pet's reproduction. If you choose not to spay or neuter your animals, you need to keep your pet under control so to avoid unplanned breeding. If you do breed, do so responsibly. Research breeding so you know what is involved, make sure your pet is healthy and free from congenital diseases, and take the time to insure all go to a good home.
- You are responsible for your pet's behavior. This means keeping them under control. For dogs this involves keeping them on a leash when walking, cleaning up after your dog, and not letting them become a nuisance to others in your neighborhood. The same can apply for an outdoor cat.
- You are responsible for the animal even if you "get one for the kids". Unless the child is financial able to pay for expenses, this will be your responsibility. Getting a pet is a good way to help your kids learn responsibility, but remember this is still your responsibility as well.
- Remember that a pet is a life-long commitment. Pets need more than just food and water - they need attention, love, and respect.
For more information regarding breeds of dog visit www.akc.org/breeds
For more information regarding breeds of cats visit www.cfa.org/breeds.html