From the common cats and dogs to exotic animals, you can find a variety of animals in people’s homes. Cats and dogs make great pets for houses and apartments, but their size matters a lot. They are almost always kept indoors, except for the times when you need to take them for a walk, grooming or for physical training. Less demanding pets from this point of view are Guinea pigs, fish, turtles and canaries.
Not everybody affords to grow large dog breeds as house pets because the costs of maintenance, food and training are very high. Moreover, there may be special grooming needs specific to certain breeds, not to mention that large dogs need room to play. Long-haired cats can also be a nuisance if not groomed properly. Guide yourself by more than first impressions when choosing house pets.
It is unfair to buy or adopt pets on a whim and then realize you don’t like them. Be reasonable and practical, because it is cruel to toy with a life. Responsibility comes together with the joy of growing house pets: you need to provide food, shelter, a healthy diet, medical and preventive care and lots of attention. The well being of the pet as well as your peace of mind depend on your ability to correctly evaluate such situations. Heart and reason meet in your choice.
A special category of house pets is that of dogs trained to assist physically challenged people with specific tasks indoors and outdoors. There are very complex forms of training for such animals, and they receive some form of certification after passing all their skill evaluation tests. Only then are they entrusted to a disabled user. Among the breeds with an almost innate talent for such ‘jobs’ golden retrievers occupy a top position in people’s preferences.
Another issue that is often neglected by pets owners is that of health insurance. Did you know that you can dramatically reduce the veterinary bills by creating a health insurance policy for your four-legged companion? On the average, very few house pets are insured particularly in the context of the recession. Pet health insurance is good if you can afford it.