| Thinking of getting a pet, but not sure what type fits | | | | Cockatiels are also becoming increasingly more |
| into your lifestyle? Pets come in all sorts of different | | | | popular as pets. Some cities and towns may restrict |
| shapes and sizes. It is important to consider various | | | | or forbid owning an exotic animal. Small animals, such |
| factors when deciding which type of pet you prefer. | | | | as birds, fish, or lizards, are practical for small living |
| Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle and personality. | | | | quarters. |
| If you like to run or jog you might consider a dog to | | | | Having a pet seems to help individuals obtain health |
| run with. If your are a less active type person | | | | goals and provide health benefits, such as lowering |
| maybe a cat, fish, bird, etc would be a better choice. | | | | blood pressure and relieving stress, in particular the |
| Also, consider the physical requirements of taking | | | | elderly, giving them someone to take care of and |
| care of a pet. Do you like small animals that are | | | | help lead a longer, healthier life. Even individuals |
| easier to care for, or medium to larger animals such | | | | residing in a long-term care facility, such as a hospice |
| as dogs, cats, etc? | | | | or nursing home, experience health benefits from |
| A pet can be adopted from an animal shelter or | | | | pets. Pets can bring happiness, enrich our lives and |
| purchased from a pet store or private breeder. A | | | | provide delightful companionship. Walking your pet |
| fast developing source is online pet adoption through | | | | dog can also provide exercise and fresh air. |
| not-for-profit websites. These service sites have | | | | Acquiring a pet can be rewarding, but it is also a big |
| searchable databases of pets, maintained by | | | | decision which requires time, money, and |
| thousands of animals shelters, and are searchable by | | | | commitment. Different pets require varying amounts |
| the public. | | | | of attention and care. |
| Some factors to consider when choosing a pet: | | | | Recommended 5 Freedoms of animal welfare: |
| * How much space is available for the pet to live. | | | | I. Freedom from discomfort due to environment. |
| * How much will your budget allow for expenses | | | | II. Freedom from pain, injury and disease. |
| (food, veterinary care, etc). | | | | III. Freedom to express normal behavior for the |
| * How much time you are willing to spend and care | | | | species. |
| for a pet. | | | | IV. Freedom from fear and distress. |
| * Can you have a pet where you live? | | | | V. Freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition. |
| * How big will the pet grow to be? | | | | Choosing the right pet can be a time consuming |
| * Do you or any family members have allergies? | | | | process, but it will be in the best interest, not only |
| The two most popular pets are Cats and Dogs. Next | | | | for you but the animal as well, to take the time to |
| are freshwater fish and birds. Other popular pets are | | | | research and select a pet accordingly. |
| Rabbits and Hamsters...Guinea | | | | 'Responsibility' is the key word to keep in mind when |
| ils. Exotic birds such as Parrots, Cockatoos and | | | | adopting a pet. |