Deciding what pet to get?
Select your new family member pet with your lifestyle and living situation in mind. For example, in some situations a particular breed may be too much for the owner to cope with or the pet may not be able to get the appropriate exercise. A few other things you may want to consider are the personality of the pet, as well as the temperament, size, and coat. Some breeds have traits that may be difficult in certain circumstances, such as hyper excitability, a tendency to bark, or working dogs requiring lots of exercise. Your veterinary surgeon is a valuable resource to discuss your needs and the needs of the pet.
How to decide who to get your pet from?
So you've decided what pet is right for you but your work is not yet done. Where you go to get your pet is just as important as what kind of pet you get.
Animal charities and rescue organisations
Animal charities and rescue organisations provide temporary homes for stray, surrendered, or abandoned pets. They most often house dogs and cats but frequently have other pets. The animal is kept at the shelter until it is reclaimed by the owner, adopted by a new owner, placed with another organisation, or in some circumstances they may need to be euthanised.
Please consider adopting your new pet from an animal charity or animal rescue organisation. It is the kind and responsible thing to do as the pets desperately need good homes.
Breeders
A responsible breeder is another source for a pure-bred, healthy pet. The breeder will carefully select the parents to emphasise desirable attributes and minimise faults in their progeny. Some people breed animals only to produce pets to sell – please do not support these breeders. These individuals are motivated solely by profit. Responsible breeders will never breed without considering the advancement and well being of the breed. Visit as many breeders as possible for your breed. Examine the premises to make sure they are clean and that the animals appear to be well cared for. Pets should be clean, well fed, lively and friendly, without any signs of illness such as runny nose or eyes, skin sores, or dirty ears or fleas. Good breeders will not over breed, don’t allow inbreeding, and nor will they keep the animals caged up.
Ask the breeder lots of questions and inspect every aspect of the conditions the pets are raised in.
Should you come across any unhealthy or inhumane conditions please report them to your nearest animal charity officer.
Should you come across any unhealthy or inhumane conditions please report them to your nearest animal charity officer.
Each type of animal has unique qualities and there is always one to suit each person. Enjoy your new companion!
See our Tips & FAQs page for some morehelpful hints...
