Picking out Your Best Friend

Often near the holidays, many people consider adding a pet to their home. As a present or as a milestone for the family everyone in the family has to be a part of the purchase or adoption of a pet for that addition to be the best.

Unfortunately most people do not know much about what pet would really fit their home and lifestyle. They may decide on a dog or cat based on one or two desirable features such as soft fur to touch or a living being who is so happy to see you coming home that loads of affection are guaranteed. Other factors such as time to train, time to take care of bathroom habits, total cost of support of the pet are unknown and not anticipated. Puppies are not what fill our shelters – 6 month old plus dogs do because people do not know what to expect with the pet and do not/or cannot provide what the pet needs. Planning ahead before you get a pet can save a lot of potential problems.

First of all, take a realistic look at the amount of time you have to feed, exercise, groom, toilet a pet. For dog lovers, even with a fenced in yard, you may have to go out in rain and snow to encourage your dog to potty. Basically dogs need at least 2 walks a day off the property for 15 minutes, as puppies play for 1 hour a day, 5 minutes of basic training daily and adhering to routine for feeding, play, and training. IT is really hard to sleep in on your day off with a dog!

Cats are less involved with schedules but still need some daily care. Litter boxes have to be scooped out daily to keep the cat going in the right place. Cats do need play with the owner to prevent mischief, and keep them at a healthy weight. Having places for your cat to lay and look out the window are also important.

Birds are more self contained for their care, but do require special diets and care. They tend to be noisy and like to talk when you are around. Some people are more allergic to birds than cats or dogs.

Small mammals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and hamsters are easy to care for, do not take up as much space and do not require as much veterinary care. They do need to have cages cleaned at least once a week, possibly more and getting all the equipment can be costly.

The cost of a pet is not only the veterinary cost, but also all food, grooming, litter, boarding etc. Most pets of all type will cost anywhere from $25 upwards to $100 per month depending on your pets needs and your lifestyle.

The rewards of pet ownership are great and hard to measure. Having a pet is a lifelong commitment for you. We offer pet selection guidance as part of our practice at Okaw Veterinary Clinic as do many veterinarians. A veterinarian and their trained staff are best informed to help you choose the best pet. They want to help you make a great match.

If your new pet and your current dog or cat don't get along, we can help. Give us a call or take a look at the services we offer.