Often people think that a rabbit, bearded dragon, hamster, gecko or so many other pets mentioned on Facebook is a good starter pet for example. There are no good/easy starter pets. Each animal has their own unique characteristics, diseases, nutritional requirements, exercise requirements, and other needs. Some of the needs are intuitive, others are not. Most people are used to having a dog or cat and will use their care requirements for all pet care. Also, not all veterinarians specialize in the treatment of some pets, such as turtles or lizards.
What should you do then? If you are getting a pet for a child then make it a learning experience. You and your child spend time together researching the pet your child would like. You may want to do the hard research like diseases or illnesses that are common for the chosen pet. Have your child look up what the pet’s nutritional, habitat, and exercise requirements are so you can discuss it. If you have another child that would like a pet, have them do the same thing. You could make this a fun family event.
Ask your family and friends who may have the pet you are looking to get. Ask them to tell you all about their pets, what they love and hate about their pet. It could be as simple as I hate having to deep clean their enclosure. Really think about whether or not the good outweighs the bad for the pet. I had a rabbit and I would get up extra early every morning to clean the mess he made from the night before. I completely changed his litter, gave him his pellets, freshened his hay, cleaned his water bowl, and cleaned up all the poop he left. Even though I had to get up an hour earlier to make sure I got everything done it was worth every minute. It may not be for you and that is important for you to know. If you are getting the pet for a child you know that at some point you will need to take care of the pet.
Another thing you will need to do is find a veterinarian that specializes in or treats the pet you are looking at. You could bring your children to the veterinarian’s clinic to show the children and ask a few questions. If you call in advance to explain what you are doing they may have someone to answer your questions. If there is a wildlife center, science center for children or natural history museum you may be able to go to those places to ask questions about the pet you are interested in. Ask if it is an easy pet to take care of so your child can hear the answer. You and your child will need to be on the same page.
Another thing you will need to do is to find someone to take care of your pet when you go away for vacation. A professional pet sitter is a great place to start, many have experience with all types of pets. JOA has a certificate in small animal first aid and many professional pet sitters will have that or other experiences.
If you don’t have children you still take all these steps. Take time to figure out the best pet for you.
Pets can truly enrich your life and bring so much joy. Remember though pets are living, breathing creatures and need attention. Go into getting a pet with eyes wide open. Do your research and be realistic, you may not have the time for a pet right now. It doesn’t mean you will never get a pet, just at a later time.
