By Rebecca Sickler Schultz
Contributing Writer
March 31, 2008 08:48 am For centuries, Fido has been known as man's best friend, and rightfully so. Dogs, cats and other animals can make wonderful companions. Finding the right pet for you and your family is essential. With a little research and forethought finding that "perfect" pet can be done. Mary Abarno, a doctor of veterinary medicine at Veterinary Specialists of Central New York, located in West Oneonta, stated that one common problem many people make when purchasing a pet is to buy on impulse. "When people do things sporadically common sense tends to go out the window," she said. Animals are a lifelong investment and the decision to bring one into your home should not be taken lightly. "Before purchasing a pet," Abarno said, "there are many things to consider, such as what type of animal you wish to buy and what breed you want." To find information on a prospective pet, Abarno suggests looking on the Internet and talking to your veterinarian. "There are also many informative television programs that can provide people with a great deal of information" she added. After thoroughly researching the animal of your choice, you must now decide where to make your purchase. If you are buying from a breeder, Abarno recommends doing an on-site visit and seeing the parents of the prospective pet you wish to buy. Deb Crute, director of the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society in Delhi, stated that "a good breeder will be willing to take the dog back if the match does not work for you and your family." "Making a purchase from the Internet and/or pet shop can be a risk because you never really know what you're going to get," Abarno said. According to Crute, most individuals and/or families can "more than likely find their future pet at their local humane society." The staff are trained professionals that can offer advice and guidance, she added. Liz Banhart, manager of the Susquehanna SPCA in Cooperstown, recommends following the following five guidelines for choosing a pet: 1. Keep an open mind: The pet you had as a child may not be suitable for your current lifestyle. 2. Start with the heart: Make a list of animals you are interested in. 3. Know your facts: Research the breed(s) and disposition of what animal you wish to purchase. 4. What are your resources: What kind of space and environment do you have? How much money per month are you able to spend? 5. Consider special issues: Do you rent? Do you live in the city or country? What is your work schedule? An adult cat may be a good choice for anyone looking for an indoor pet with a moderate activity level. Cats enjoy human companionship and are quite adaptable. Adult cats may also be a nice match for anyone with small children, who tend to grab and carry kittens, which can lead to clawing and scratching. Dogs, one of the most common pets, require regular outdoor activity and daily interaction with people. Dogs make wonderful pets for families and individuals who are willing to invest their time and commitment to care. "Keep in mind," Abarno said, "that the larger the dog the more expensive any medications will be _ since the amount of medicine is determined by the dog's weight." "Pocket pets," which include mice, rats, gerbils and guinea pigs, along with rabbits, are exclusively indoor pets. Even though they are on the small side, "pocket pets" require daily human interaction and need the proper toys, cage and cleaning for a healthy habitat. Animals of this nature are great for teens or individuals with limited space. Fish can be a great option for those who tend to travel a great deal and have a busy work schedule. With proper care, fish can be fun pets. Birds are animals that tend to live for about 20 years and can be wonderful companions for anyone who is able to invest time and money into their care. So, whatever pet you may choose, be it canine, feline, fowl, rodent or something else, just be sure to do your research before making any purchases. After all, pets are members of the family, too. On the Web: Heart of the Catskills Human Society: www.heartofthecatskills.org/ Susquehanna SPCA: www.petfinder.com/shelters/NY75.html.
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