The essentials
- Do your research — Before getting set on a specific type of pet, do your research. Many pets have certain requirements to survive or need a lot of exercise.
- Find a pet that matches your lifestyle — If you prefer to lounge around the house, a high-energy pet is probably not the right choice. Find one that fits with your lifestyle.
- Most animals need enrichment — Many types of pets need both mental and physical stimulation, requiring playtime, toys, and exercise.
Pets can profoundly affect our health. They provide companionship, reduce stress, and bring laughter into our lives. However, finding the right pet for your lifestyle is key. A pet should complement your daily life, routines, activity level, free time, and space. Here’s everything you need to know about finding a pet that fits your lifestyle.
1. Consider the time commitment
When choosing a pet, a primary consideration is the animal’s lifespan and the time commitment involved. How many years can you commit to caring for a pet? Some animals, like parrots and turtles, can live up to 50 years or more. Cats live an average between 13 and 17 years, while dogs average around 12 years. Some pets may live well past these ages, so considering the length of time involved can help you determine which pet is best for you.
Other time commitment considerations include how long you’d be away from your pet. Do you work long hours or have to travel for work? Unless you have someone who can look after them or a place to board them, certain pets may not be the right choice.
Can you provide them the attention or exercise they need? If you’re gone long hours, feeding, exercising, and socializing your pet may be a challenge. Additionally, some pets can easily develop separation anxiety, especially if they are young or adopted from a shelter.
2. Think about energy levels, personality, temperament
Before adopting a pet, assess your own activity levels. Do you prefer to be outdoors and are looking for a hiking partner? Or do you prefer to be home and want a companion to sit with you? Some pets require much more activity than others and can become destructive if not properly exercised.
Before getting your heart set on a certain breed, ask yourself if you’re willing to change your lifestyle to fit your animal’s needs. A German Shepherd is probably not the best choice for someone less active and unwilling to take the time to train them. Conversely, a more low-energy breed may not be best for someone who’s more active.
Also, consider that the personality and temperament are different from animal to animal despite being a certain type or breed. Even if you have a yard, a dog will need regular walking and sufficient exercise. Similarly, most animals need mental stimulation and attention, and some may need more than others.
3. Evaluate your space
If you’re considering getting a pet, evaluate your space. Do you live in an apartment? If so, are you allowed to have animals? If not, are you willing to relocate? If you live in a house, do you have adequate space for an animal? Do you have a fenced yard or place where you can exercise or walk them? Do you have small children or other animals in the house?
Determining what size animal can fit your space can also set you and your pet up for success. Find ways to provide mental stimulation, even if you don’t have much room. For some animals, this may look like puzzles, slow feeders, enrichment toys or mats, places to hide, or scratching posts. Other animals may need space to run or fly inside or other ways to feel comfortable and mentally stimulated.
4. Choose an appropriate age
Choose the right age for your lifestyle and your schedule. While raising a young animal is right for certain lifestyles, it requires a lot of effort and attention. It also comes with the responsibilities of potty training, socialization, walking and exercise, spaying and neutering, and patience. Adopting a senior or adult animal is a great way to help pets in need and may be a great choice for those looking for a low-key, relaxed companion. But they may come with challenges as well.
5. Consider your financial situation
Adopting an animal also comes with financial considerations. Can you afford the costs of a pet? Can you afford pet insurance? Are you willing to take on the financial risks and develop a pet budget? What if they need surgery or emergency veterinary care?
Some pets may need specialized care or have more extensive needs than others. These may include food, housing, and lighting or other habitat requirements. In addition, certain breeds of pets may be prone to certain health issues, which can further increase costs. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, heartworm, and flea and tick medication are just a few of the necessary financial considerations of having a pet, like a cat or dog.
Preparing for a dog
Before bringing a dog into your home, make sure its living space is safe and suitable. Remove any hazards and set up designated sleeping, eating, and playing areas.
Research the supplies you need, like food, bowls, toys, a bed, and a leash, and have those ready to go. Choose a veterinarian for regular vet visits, yearly vaccinations, and emergencies. Before you make the decision, make sure your lifestyle can accompany a dog and its needs. Here are some articles to help you prepare for a dog:
- How to make your new dog feel comfortable in your home. Learn practical tips for easing your dog’s new transition into your home. This article discusses how to prep your home, establish a routine, plan for their arrival, and the importance of patience.
- Preparing for a new puppy. Discover the essentials of planning to bring a new puppy into your life. It outlines considerations, puppy-proofing your home, and scheduling vet visits. This article emphasizes how to smoothly transition your new pup and start out on the right foot.
- How to prepare for adopting a dog. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before adopting a dog. It discusses how to choose the right dog for your lifestyle and home. It gives actionable tips on shelters, the adoption process, and how to prepare your home.
- Here are the 13 most important questions to ask when adopting a dog. This guide offers critical questions you should consider before adopting a dog. It covers topics like if a shelter dog is right for you if you have the time and ability to care for a dog, and other important topics to think about. It also discusses questions to ask the shelter before adopting to make the right choice for you and your lifestyle.
- 6 ways you can help your new rescue dog feel at home. With actionable tips, you can help your rescue dog acclimate to their new home. It focuses on planning for their arrival, creating a calm environment, establishing routines, and providing plenty of patience and love. These strategies can help build trust and help them feel more secure and comfortable.
- Special dogs need special homes. This guide discusses the unique needs of special needs dogs and how you can prepare to meet those needs. It highlights the importance of whether a special needs dog is right for you, understanding their requirements, and making the necessary home adjustments.
- The new pet guide for parents: preventing injuries in pets and kids. If you have children at home and plan to bring home a new pet, this guide offers safety tips to prevent injuries. It emphasizes supervision, proper introductions, and teaching your children how to interact safely with them to create a safe and happy home.
- 11 things no one told you about owning a dog. This article reveals the lesser-known aspects of dog ownership. It provides insights on the financial commitment, grooming and care requirements, food, training and exercise, health, the emotional bond that forms, and preparing your home. Understanding these can help prepare pet owners for the realities of dog ownership.
- You were gifted a pet unexpectedly—now what? This article provides guidance for those who received a pet as a gift or were given one unexpectedly. It outlines the steps to take, including assessing the pet’s needs, making preparations, and determining whether re-homing is the right option. Being a responsible dog owner takes work, and this article helps new pet owners navigate the responsibilities of caring for their new companion.
If you adopt an animal from a shelter, humane society, or anywhere else, these animals may have experienced abuse or neglect before coming into your care. They often require extra patience, understanding, love, and time to adjust to a new environment. Providing a stable and loving home can help acclimate them and make them feel as comfortable as possible.
You may need to seek the help of a professional trainer or veterinary behavioral specialist. Returning a dog or other animal after adoption because of behavioral issues can traumatize them even further. Be prepared for the commitment and challenges that come with caring for an abused or neglected pet.
Catifying your home
Cats can be incredibly rewarding and loving companions. However, they require enrichment geared towards their needs if they are going to thrive. Providing interactive toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures can help keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Doing so also reduces the likelihood of behavioral problems, keeping them happy and healthy. Here are a few articles on preparing your home for a new cat:
- Adopting a cat: everything you need to know about the adoption process. This article covers the essentials for anyone considering adopting a cat. It provides a comprehensive guide on the adoption process, prepping your home, and the responsibilities of cat ownership.
- Preparing for a new cat. Preparing for your new cat’s arrival can help make sure they are comfortable when you bring them home. This article discusses how to set up a safe space for them, the necessary supplies, and understanding the importance of patience while they are adjusting.
- A complete guide on how to train a cat. While often thought of for dogs, this article teaches you how to train your cat. You can train them to use the litter box, learn words and basic commands, and address behavioral issues. It also discusses the importance of training and when to seek professional help.
- How to introduce a kitten to a cat. Introducing a kitten to an existing cat shouldn’t be done without preparation, and this article discusses how. Focus on gradual introductions, creating positive associates, and monitoring interactions. Learn how to create a peaceful and friendly relationship between your new and resident cat.
- Adopting a new cat checklist. This checklist is a must-read for new cat owners. It details everything you need for your cat’s arrival and includes recommendations for food, litter, toys, and healthcare supplies.
- Creating a good home for your cat. Cats need a stimulating and safe environment. This article covers providing safe hiding places, scratching posts, and interactive toys to create a cat-friendly environment — all of which are essential for your cat’s physical and emotional health.
- Preparing your home for your new kitten. This guide discusses everything you need to know to prepare your home for a new kitten. It includes advice on removing hazards, setting up a safe and cozy space, and having essential supplies on hand to help your kitten adjust.
- How to cat-proof your home. If you bring a cat into your home, you’ll want to take a few precautions to make it safe for them. This article covers removing potential hazards, securing dangerous items, and creating a safe space for them to explore.
Patience is key when bringing home a new kitten or cat. Cats often take longer to adjust to new environments, so it’s important to give them the time and space they need. Start by setting up a safe and quiet space they can retreat to and allow them to explore their surroundings at their own pace.
Change can be overwhelming. Provide plenty of enrichment, such as toys and scratching posts, to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. If you find your cat is struggling to adapt or not making progress, consider a cat behaviorist for advice and strategies.
Low-maintenance pets for a busy lifestyle
If you want a pet but don’t have the time or capacity to dedicate to a cat or dog, you have other options. But that doesn’t mean that these pets require little to no care. Some of these pets need certain lighting, humidity, supplemental vitamins, and bedding.
Furred and feathered
Hamsters, parakeets, and rats are a few furred and feathered pets for those with busy lifestyles. Hamsters can become aggressive with more than one in the same cage, so you don’t need to necessarily worry about more than one. Parakeets and rats are social animals and need the company of another, so it’s best to get two. If you can’t manage more than one, it may be best not to have any of these pets at all.
Reptiles, amphibians, and fish
Turtles, lizards, frogs, and fish make up this category. While they may seem easy-to-care for, some require proper lighting (UV), humidity, and filters, and, in the case of turtles, live a long time. These pets may not require the same time commitment and space, but still need specialized care. Make sure to research the specifics of each animal before jumping into getting one.
Insects and arachnids
Stick bugs, cockroaches, and tarantulas may suit your lifestyle if you have very little time or limited space or resources. They don’t require much and make interesting pets. Caterpillars that turn into butterflies are another option, especially if you have kids. They can watch their transformation journey at home and care for butterflies after they emerge from their cocoon.
Choosing the right pet for your lifestyle means that you can provide the proper care and have a plan in place for the unexpected. This includes meeting their dietary, habitat, exercise, and stimulation needs, along with regular veterinary check-ups and financial planning. In case of emergencies, travel, or changes in your living situation, have a plan for who will care for your pet in your absence. By selecting a pet that matches your lifestyle, you can provide a loving and stable life for your companion.
Frequently asked questions
How do you choose the perfect pet for your family?
Before choosing a pet for your family, make sure your family is ready for the responsibilities that come with owning a pet. Think about your lifestyle and if you have the time, resources, and energy for one.
What is the easiest pet to take care of?
Fish are the easiest pets to care for. However, you still need to provide them with care, proper diet, a nice tank, rocks, plants, filters, and weekly tank maintenance.
What is the best pet for a beginner?
Fish are a great first pet for beginners. They require care and tank maintenance but don’t require as much time or attention as something like a guinea pig, cat, or dog.
What kind of advice would you give to a first-time pet owner?
Choose the right pet for your family and lifestyle. A high-energy dog is not the right choice if you can’t exercise it daily. Similarly, a bearded dragon is not the right choice if you don’t want to research or spend money on the proper habitat requirements. Depending on the pet, you also need to have patience, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement.
I need to buy a dog for apartment life, which breed is better?
Consider the size of your living space and your lifestyle. High-energy dogs like border collies, German shepherds, and huskies are not a good choice if you don’t have the time to exercise or train them. Greyhound rescues, and smaller dogs may better fit apartment living.
