Perhaps you’re considering getting a pet. You need some variety, some spice in your everyday routine. You want a companion that won’t criticize you or use all the hot water. One who will listen to your hopes and fears and failures and never say’I told you so’. Pets are something every person needs, they are God’s gift to us, and I think we should appreciate them.
You might wonder what kind of pet to get which will be most convenient money and time wise. You’ll need something compatible with your character. Now I have had a long history with pets. I currently have a dog who is an absolute angel. I have also had rabbits, gerbils, fish, cats and goats.
Maybe you’re a dog person. You want a furry companion who will keep your feet warm and never complain about the smell. For a dog, there are some factors to consider. First, ask yourself, do I have the time? Dogs require a considerable amount of attention and loving care. You have to exercise, feed, brush, bathe, train and pay attention to this new found friend of yours. So you think you can still handle one.
The next questions are, what type of dog? Should I get a puppy or an adult? Where should I get it? First, consider your living conditions. Do you have room for a big dog? If not, you’ll have to go with a smaller, less energetic breed. There are places on the internet where you can answer a few questions and they’ll give you the best breeds to suit you. You must also consider whether you want long-haired or short-haired, male or female. Getting a puppy or adult depends on how much time you’re willing to spend training them, and if you have kids, you must also get a breed that is friendly towards them. If you want a full-bred dog you can look up a professional breeder with good credit, or if you just want a mutt, take a look at the pound. Keep an eye out in the classfieds too, there are many ads there.
I have a female labrador mix. She is very friendly to kids, is energetic and obedient. Mutts are generally healthier than full breds. Now I bet you’re thinking’Wow! That’s a lot of work!’ It really isn’t, and it’s worth the effort, because you will gain a friend. True, there are some dumb dogs out there, but you have to be choosy, and careful. I got my dog because I saw an ad in the paper for free puppies. That was one of the best choices I ever made.
So you’re not a dog person. How about a cat? Perfect if you live in an apartment, or have limited space. Cats cannot be trained like dogs, are very picky, but can be loving and comforting on long, cold winter nights(Just as long as they’re not marching on your face while you’re asleep). You have to put up with a litterbox, which will not smell if you keep it clean. They are also lower cost and lower maintenance than dogs, but different. A common reference is that, men are like dogs and women are like cats. Very true. Dogs are loyal and obedient, cats are moody and emotional. Well, you can draw you own conclusions.
But maybe you don’t want that much responsibility. Rabbits are lower maintenance, they only need their cage cleaned once a week, can be trained, and are lovely.
Too much? Try a gerbil or hamster or ferret. Change the cage about once a month, they’re fun to watch, but are little noisy.
Don’t like the noise? Try a turtle or a fish or if you really want a companion who will talk back, get a bird. Or a reptile even.
Pets are a wonderful addition to our lives, ’.all man’s virtues without his vices.’ Says Lord Byron. I say you’re missing out if you don’t have one. You might have had some bad experiences in the past, but if you had a bad boyfriend or girlfriend, you wouldn’t give up searching for true love. Don’t give up on animals, they are what makes man good.