Choosing a Pet TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-1105 -- More Projects »
Pet expert Lisa Marie Fortier discusses how to choose the right pet for you and/or your family. It takes just a little research and soul-searching.Cats
- Cats are the most popular pets in America. They're often lovable and affectionate toward their owners, independent and easily adaptable.
- Since the life span of the average indoor cat is between 14 to 17 years, choosing to become the owner of a cat requires careful thought and commitment.
The essentials you need to have are food, medical care, feeding dishes, toys (figure A), grooming, litter, litter box, scratching post and an ID tag. Small Pets
- Small animals such as guinea pigs are usually great pets for children and first-time pet owners.
Caring for a small animal is affordable, and many pet stores offer starter kits that include all the necessities a new pet parent needs to provide--the habitat (figure B), safe bedding, litter and exercise equipment. Guinea pigs need a quality multi vitamin added to their water.Because guinea pigs teeth are constantly growing, they also need a chew block to keep them sharp and short. Dogs
- Parenting a dog is a commitment that lasts an average of 10 to 15 years. Conducting research and considering lifestyle along with the needs of the pet are important to bear in mind when choosing a dog or any other pet. For instance, a pet owner may want to bring a dog into the family as a running buddy versus another owner who is looking for a more laidback dog to play with children.
- Dogs are generally affectionate and extremely sociable animals. Most are happiest when spending time with their families.
- Spending several hours of quality time (exercising, petting, playing) with a dog each day will help them stay healthy and happy.
The basics include food, medical care, feeding dishes, collars, ID tags (figure C), licenses, leashes, bedding, carriers, grooming, training and toys. Dogs will need their water dishes left out at all times, but they should have specific feeding times.Dogs require baths. Make sure to only use canine shampoo. It is also a good idea to have a spot and odor remover in case your pet has an accident. Choose a chew toy that will not break apart and possibly harm the dog.
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