Sure they may be cute and cuddly, but buying a pet may be more expensive and more work than you think.  Be realistic about how much you can afford and don’t ever jump into it.  Buying a pet is a very serious decision.  Here’s a run down of start-up expenses relating to different pets:

• Amphibians, reptiles, and fish: Aquarium, filter, heater, plants, owner’s manual.
• Birds and rodents: Cage, bedding or cage liner, dishes, toys, owner’s manual.
• Dogs and cats: License, collar, leash, brush, toys, dishes, bed, owner’s manual.

Here are some other ongoing costs to consider:

• Food
• Bedding
• Litter
• Grooming or grooming supplies
• Regular veterinary check ups
• Sick, trauma, or emergency veterinary care
• Vaccinations and other medical care as needed

Do you have the time and energy to feed, clean or groom, handle, train, exercise, and take your pet to the veterinarian regularly? Here’s a run down of minimum time needed to provide basic care for a pet:

• Amphibians, reptiles, and fish – 10 minutes per day, plus 3 hours every few weeks
• Hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, and rabbits – 30 minutes per day
• Cats and birds – 30 to 60 minutes per day
• Dogs – More than one hour per day

Remember that these times are bare minimums, and all pets deserve to be in a loving home with people who have the time and energy to take care of them and spend time building the special bond.  Dogs and cats can live up to 16 years of age!  Are you ready to make that type of long term commitment to your pet?

Don’t forget you don’t have to buy a pet.  You can adopt a pet from a local pound or the humane soceity.  Websites like Craigslist and Kijiji have pet sections where people give pets away for free because their owners can no longer care for them.  Personally, I would never purchase an animal from a pet store.  There are so many animals out there that require a good home, love and attention, there is really no need to buy a new one.

Whatever your choice it, understand that getting a pet is a costly and long term committment.  Good luck!

Related posts:

1. Are Rabbits Good Pets? Information on Pet Rabbits
2. The Importance of Exercise For Pets