The Best Pet for Your Home Might Not Be a Dog or Cat
Posted on: 2 November 2016
A pet can bring a lot of joy and laughter into your life, but which pet is right for you? If you are not sure that a dog or cat is the right pet, consider some other options that may better suit your family, lifestyle, and home before adopting.
Some other great pets include the following.
A bird. It can be very relaxing and soothing to watch birds, and that is why many hospitals and VA centers are integrating aviaries on their properties. Birds are also great pets for people that lack the greenspace needed for a dog or cat. Birds are fun pets, and some breeds can be trained to speak or do tricks.
A lizard or snake. Reptiles make the perfect pets for individuals that want a life-long companion, as many snakes can live up to 20 years, and pet turtles often reach 30 years of age. If you have room for an aquarium or tank, you likely have the space needed for a pet reptile.
A mini-pig. Mini-pigs are fast becoming a popular choice of pet for many families. Pigs are smart and have the ability to be housetrained to live indoors. A mini-pig may be more prone to injury than other breeds, so the average life-span is around 5 years, while a pot-bellied pig usually lives around fifteen years or longer. Make sure that your family is committed before adopting.
A ferret. Ferrets are often mistaken for rodents, but these furry creatures are members of the weasel family. Ferrets require a lot of work, including training and interaction, to ensure they don't become bored and wreak havoc on your home. Ferrets can be kept indoors in a cage with toys and tubes for climbing, and the average lifespan is almost 10 years.
A mini-horse. If you have your heart set on a horse, consider adopting a mini-horse! These charming little animals make excellent pets as long as you have ample space and access to the outdoors. A mini-horse requires as much maintenance as a full-sized horse, as well as a lifetime commitment, since these smaller equine can live to be 50 years of age.
Foster a sense of responsibility in your children or provide companionship to older individuals with a pet. If a dog or cat doesn't fit your lifestyle, consider some other options including snakes, birds, and ferrets, before visiting a shelter. Weigh all of your pet options to find the perfect friend to join your family! You can also talk to professionals at organizations such as Oakton Animal Hospital for more information about what caring for these animals would be like.
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