Nothing is more exciting than choosing a new pet to welcome into your family, other than the day you bring them home, of course. However, before getting caught up in all the emotions surrounding this wonderful event, think logically about the best fit for your family. To help you choose the most appropriate household pet, our Williamsburg Animal Clinic team asks you to consider your family’s answers to seven important questions.

Question #1: How much time do we have to devote to a pet?

A pet’s care needs can be at either end of the spectrum’s extremes. Some pets, such as lizards, typically prefer a more hands-off relationship, but cleaning their habitat and preparing their food can be time-consuming. Dogs, on the other hand, require much more interaction, and energetic breeds need intensive exercise to stay happy and healthy. Assess your lifestyle carefully to determine how much time you have available to care for all your pet’s emotional, mental, and physical needs.

Q #2: How does our activity level complement that of the pet species we are considering?

If your idea of a fun weekend activity is binge-watching the latest Netflix series, a Belgian Malinois is not the pet for you. Opt for a pet who does not require exercise, such as a fish. However, if you enjoy spending your free time hiking, running, swimming, or being active, a high-energy pet can make the ideal companion.

Q #3: Will our current pet accept a new pet?

A major factor to consider when choosing a new pet is if your current pet will accept a new housemate. If your cat can’t keep their paws out of the fish tank, or your dog won’t stop drooling over your bunny, you may need to rethink your menagerie. Some pets are simply meant to be an only household pet.

Q #4: How much space do we have for a pet?

If you are considering getting a small pet because you don’t have much room, understand their space requirements first. For example, although a turtle may be relatively small, they require at least 15 gallons of tank space per inch of turtle length. When considering a new pet, carefully assess their environmental and exercise needs.

Q #5: Do we have restrictions on the type of pet we can bring home?

If you live in an apartment or are part of a homeowner association (HOA), you may be restricted on the pet type you can have. Some apartments do not allow any pets, while others have weight limits for dogs. If you own property under an HOA’s jurisdiction, you will likely be limited to indoor-only pets, so you won’t be able to bring home that pony your daughter wants. 

In addition to property rules and regulations, if a person in your household has allergies to a specific animal species, remove that pet type from consideration. If someone in your household has allergies to a certain species, do not bring home a pet who will make that family member miserable.

Q #6: How much money can we afford to spend on a pet’s care?

All pets require food, water, shelter, bedding, and regular veterinary care. However, the cost for these items varies greatly depending on their species and size. For example, a Chihuahua will cost much less to feed than an Irish Wolfhound, but you may end up spending more in dental care for the tiny breed than for the giant one. In addition, small mammals’ habitats may cost less than those of reptiles, whose living environments require heating and lighting sources. 

Some pets, such as long- or thick-coated dogs, may require regular professional grooming. In addition, your puppy or adult dog may need training and socialization classes, an added expense you may need to consider.

Q #7: What is your family looking for in a pet?

Overall, why you want a pet will determine the species you choose. If you’re looking for a home or livestock defender, a dog is your best choice. If you want a low-maintenance pet that is entertaining, a betta fish is a good option. 

Once you’ve decided on your pet’s overall purpose and the species that would best fulfill that goal, think about their personality. Do you want a cuddly lap warmer or an independent guardian? Are you looking for a pet with boundless energy, or one who would prefer to relax? Ultimately, the answers to these questions will determine which pet will fit into your family best.

If you’re stumped in your decision on the pet species that would be right for your family, discuss the endless possibilities with Dr. Baghdoyan. He is familiar with many exotic pets’ quirks, and has great insight into those of dogs and cats too. If you’ve already welcomed a new pet into your family, we are eager to welcome them to ours! Schedule your new pet’s first wellness visit with our Williamsburg Animal Clinic team.