| Generally, there are 3 kinds of virtual pets: | | | | adoption site is not secured you again run the risk of |
| downloadable (download the software and play | | | | running into a virus that can actually spoil your |
| games on your computer), straight online virtual pets | | | | computer. |
| and "dual pets", which are actually plush animals, | | | | So for both the above alternatives, ensure you have |
| which can also be looked after online by keying in a | | | | installed latest version of a good virus protection for |
| unique code that accompanies the toy at virtual pet | | | | your computer! |
| adoption sites. | | | | The last kind of online pet ("dual pets") is the best |
| Downloadable virtual pets are a great source of | | | | solution. They're quite cheap (about $10 - $15 for |
| entertainment, and you need not be online at cyber | | | | each new pet) and actually worth the price paid. |
| pet adoption sites - once the software is | | | | These pets are real, meaning they are luxurious |
| downloaded. The problem with this option is that | | | | stuffed animals with which children can play like other |
| unless a reputed site provides the software, you are | | | | kinds of toys, but they come with a code printed on |
| facing the danger of downloading a virus along with | | | | a card provided along with them that gives access to |
| the game - which can be quite bad! (If you visit one | | | | virtual pet adoption websites letting the child feed, |
| of the free download sites, there can even be a | | | | clothe, provide medication and design homes for their |
| warning note at the top or bottom of the webpage | | | | pets. In this VPA online game, the cyber pet adoption |
| regarding it.) | | | | sites are very secure (thus eliminating the risk of |
| Virtual pets at VPA sites are played straight online, | | | | unknowingly adopting a virus as well as the pet). |
| without having to download the software for playing. | | | | Besides there are various other activities that are |
| Generally this means taking a registered membership | | | | available on the virtual pet adoption sites like |
| with the cyber pet adoption site so as to own the | | | | educational games, chat rooms (safe) and other |
| pet. This is a good option, but if the virtual pet | | | | entertainment for young ones. |