Read Before You Have Your Next Pet

By Nasser Othman
Many people and families would like to have a pet. Yet not all people realize the responsibilities of raising a pet. Caring for a dog, cat, bird, or even a fish lies on all the members of the household. That's why the decision of getting a pet should be agreed upon by all the members of the family.

There are many factors to consider before getting one. First you must remember that you are forming a relationship with this animal. Like any relationships it requires caring loving nurturing and, most of all, time. This little animal depends on you for caring feeding and much more.

The second factor is budgeting. Is it in your budget to buy pet food, toys for your pet, or even medical attention if the occasion arises? It costs money to raise a pet and that is extra expense on your household budget, can you afford it?

The third factor is your home size; do you have the room or the extra space for your pet? You have to consider the space your pet will occupy.

Pet Dog:

A dog is man's best friend. Having a dog for a pet is a big responsibility; it could change your life style. There are some things to consider before you get a dog:

1- Dogs need considerable space to run around and walk.

2- You have to have time to take your dog for a walk outside 2 to 3 times a day.

3- Dog diets requires a variety of dog food, dog treats, and dog snacks. It is important to keep your pet healthy.

4- Dog owners must have their pet examined and vaccinated by a veterinarian every year.

5- Having a dog for a pet is an expensive hobby.

Pet Cat:

Cats are great. Cats do not require as much care as a dog. Of course they do need some care, as do all pets. What you should consider before having a cat:

1-Cats need feeding daily and require that you purchase different type of cat food. You have to buy dry cat food and moist cat food. And cat food also comes in variety of flavors; you have to consider buying a few different flavors.

2-You need to know that cats like to scratch their claws, and they will do that all over your furniture and doors.

3-Cats love to play so they need your attention and time to play with you.

4-Cats do get sick like every animal; a visit to the veterinarian is inevitable.

5-You need to have cat food, cat treats, cat toys, cat bedding, cat litter, cat water and food bowls, cat charms.

Pet Bird:

Birds are very nice and lots of fun. Still, you have to keep in mind that all pets need a clean environment no matter what they are or what size. Birds are the same thing.

1-Birds make a mess in the cage and in the surrounding area. So you have to keep cleaning up after them every day, especially the surrounding area, and clean the inside of the cage weekly.

2-Every morning you have to give your bird a fresh bowl of seeds and fresh water. Keep a mixture of seeds (bird food) always in your home.

3-Bird supplies consist of bird food (seed mixture), millet spray (bird treat), cuttle bone (calcium bone), as well as bird toys you leave inside the cage.

At the end you have to prepare yourself before you get your next pet. Pets are like children in that they need care and loving. Pets give pleasure and fulfillment to their owners, and that is why you want to have a pet.