The decision to bring a pet into a family is an important one. There are many
options to choose from. We will address many of these choices but remind you to take a
close look at your particular situation when making a pet decision.
Lets first make an assumption. You have extra time, space and money required by
the new pet.
OK!
The choice of which pet to purchase is an adult decision! Do not be swayed by the
emotional desires of a child. A wrong choice can lead to an unhappy family and an abused
or neglected pet. Through education, a child can be very happy with an adult's pet decision
and most of the time is merely concerned about having a new friend.
Cat or Dog? Or both? Cats and dogs both offer companionship, love and affection but in
different ways. Please remember the following are general facts, each person has a
different story about their pet! A quick look at some of the pros and cons:
Cats are easier to keep in the sense that they can use a litter box, eat less and take up
less space. They tend to be more able to entertain themselves and can be left alone longer
than most dogs. Cats offer a very special kind of love to their owners. These are
significant benefits, especially to first time pet owners. Cats are indoor pets and should
never be let out unless on leash.
Dogs require more maintenance but are more versatile. Dogs are great companions for travel
and outdoor activities. Dogs tend to be more interactive and trainable. You must have a
large yard for all but the smallest dogs. A humane containment system such as a fence or
invisible fence is necessary. Please refer to our 5 Step Puppy Plan
for great decision and preparation information or our Mixed Breed
vs. Pure Bred page for that important decision.
HUMANE SHELTERS - Very often the best choice is to go to your local humane agencies and
look at the cats and dogs that are up for adoption. Sometimes being able to see a pet
firsthand and learning a little about its personality will be a great help in selecting a
pet. Most people don't realize that a humane agency is the best place to view a variety of
sizes, breeds and personalities. Also, saving a pet's life is a wonderful, rewarding act!
PUREBRED PETS - When looking for a purebred pet there are a number of options. First, you
should remember that the local humane agencies very often have pure bred cats and dogs.
Books are also a great source of information. Be sure to purchase at least three books as
authors' opinions often differ. Local clubs often offer shows which give you an excellent
opportunity to meet breeders and ask questions. After you have chosen a breed, you may
contact the American Pet Association's Breeder Referral Program
for a free National Breed Club listing or a listing of breeders in your area.
Both types of pets are better off in twos, yes we said it, two pets are better than one!
Two pets will entertain themselves and learn from each other while you are away. But be
prepared for slightly higher maintenance and vet bills.
Both cats and dogs need proper identification for their protection. There is no better
protection than the APA's Guardian and Guardian VIP programs.
Proper vet care is required throughout your pet's life. Our Pet Vet Log is included with
all APA memberships.