A pet can provide much love and companionship day after day, which is why you might be eager to welcome an animal into your life and into your home. Before you head to your local pet store or animal shelter, there are many considerations you’ll need to make to ensure that you select the right pet.

After all, you must be able to provide your pet with the time, care, and attention that it needs every day. Find out what you need to consider before bringing a pet home.

Your Commitment Level

Pet ownership is a big responsibility and a long-term commitment. Different pets will require varying levels of commitment and have different lifespans, which you’d be wise to consider before welcoming an animal into your life.

For example, a dog will typically live for up to 10 to 15 years and need to be fed, walked, and played with routinely. Also, they may require a great deal of your attention and companionship, which might force you to forgo social events.

If you’d prefer a less-demanding pet, the following animals are superb choices:

• Fish
• Guinea pig
• Tortoise
• Turtle
• Hamster
• Gecko
• Parakeet
• African dwarf frog
• Snake

Affordability

Some pets are more costly to own than others. For this reason, you must weigh the cost of ownership against your finances to make the correct decision for your bank balance and the pet’s quality of life.

For example, a cat or dog will likely cost a substantial amount of money in veterinary care, food, grooming, toys, treats, and bedding. If money is tight, consider bringing home a more affordable pet, such as a fish, gecko, rabbit, or a small bird. Understanding how much a pet costs will ensure that you look back on your decision with no regrets.

A Pet’s Health Needs

Every pet will have specific health needs that you’ll need to familiarize yourself with before you bring them home. For example, a dog is more susceptible to gum disease, obesity, ear infections, and distemper. Therefore, you must provide a canine with a nutrient-rich diet, dental care, vaccinations, and regular veterinary care.

Also, reptiles could fall vulnerable to common health issues, such as ectoparasites, fungal diseases, and metabolic bone disorders. For this reason, you must protect your pet with the appropriate reptile healthcare products, such as a calcium supplement to prevent metabolic bone disorder. Also, you must regularly clean out their housing and follow good hygiene practices when handling your pet.

You and Your Loved Ones’ Allergies

If you or a loved one has an allergy to fur, you should avoid welcoming a furry friend, such as a cat or dog into the family. 

Common signs of a pet allergy include:

• A runny nose
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Watery, red, or itchy eyes
• Postnasal drip
• An itchy throat, roof of mouth, or nose
• Facial pain or pressure
• A cough

Also, you should consider spending time with a potential pet to see if it triggers an allergic reaction in a family member. This will ensure that you feel 100% confident when welcoming an animal, reptile, or insect into your home.