Bringing home a new pet is a huge decision that requires a great deal of thought and planning to ensure you choose the best match. While any pet is sure to bring your family joy, finding the right fit can smooth out potential issues down the road. Before diving into your new pet search, asking the following questions will help guide your quest.

Question: What pet type will fit in with my lifestyle?

Choosing a pet who aligns with your lifestyle will help ensure the best fit. Ask yourself how you spend most of your free time, and if a pet can participate in your favorite activities. If your family enjoys being active and exploring new trails on weekends, an adventurous dog is likely the best workout buddy. Or, if you prefer spending time at home lost in a good book, a lap-warming cat might be the perfect companion.

Question: How much time can I devote to my pet’s care?

Determine how much time you have to care for a pet by factoring in feeding, exercise, training, grooming, and habitat maintenance needs. While tossing flakes into a fish tank takes only a few seconds, regularly having to clean a large aquarium requires a huge time investment, so a solitary fish who thrives in a small space would be a better choice than setting up a saltwater tank.

If you’re interested in adding a canine companion to your family, a curly coated Labradoodle puppy with boundless energy may not be a good fit compared with a middle-aged pug who prefers being a couch potato over a brisk walk. 

Question: How much space do I have for a pet?

When trying to figure out the best pet type who will fit in with your family—and your home—consider both your indoor and outdoor space. Large dogs need plenty of room indoors and outside to run and play, while cats can make use of your home’s vertical space (i.e., placing a perch next to a wall) to meet their exercise needs. 

Exotic pets will need an appropriately sized enclosure to thrive. Many small exotic species require a great deal of room for their special needs, such as swimming, tunneling, or flying. Carefully research any exotic pet you may be considering to ensure you can comfortably house and care for them. 

Question: Can I afford a pet?

Time, space, and financial constraints can limit the type of pet you welcome home. Take a good look at your budget to calculate how much you can afford for a pet’s care and upkeep. Estimate the monthly costs of the following ongoing pet care requirements:

  • Food
  • Treats
  • Litter
  • Bedding or habitat substrate
  • Toys
  • Grooming
  • Training or sporting classes
  • Boarding, daycare, or pet sitter
  • Pet insurance
  • Preventive veterinary care

Don’t forget to also tally the initial upfront costs that can take a chunk out of your savings. A habitat, cage, tank, or enclosure will likely be the largest expense, but other large purchases can include a scratching post, feeding supplies, and drinking fountain—and the cost of the pet.

Question: What types of pets are not good choices?

When considering the best pet type for your family, also consider which ones won’t be a good choice. For example, if your partner is allergic to birds, feathered pets are off the list. Or, if you have a toddler, a large, rambunctious dog may not be an ideal pet.

If you already have pets, factor in their feelings about a new household member. Some pets prefer to be an “only child,” while others can play happily with any species. Your current dog may be picky about a new playmate, so set up a meet-and-greet session between potential matches to help with your decision. Other species, like cats, often require a settling in period before being introduced, so seeing immediately how your pets will interact can be tough.

Property restrictions will also influence your pet type, because the regulations may impact the pet you can keep in your home. If you rent your home or live in a regulated neighborhood, check out any breed, weight, or species restrictions. 

Determining the pet type that will be your best match can be a challenge, so rely on your Heartland Veterinary Hospital team for guidance. Then, once you’ve found your new best friend, set up a meet-and-greet, so we can welcome your new pet to our family.