Choosing the right animal for a pet

by Jan Kennemer 07/28/2024

For those who want a pet, animals can seem as unique as humans. With all the differences in basic needs and temperament, it can be difficult to figure out which companion animal would make the most sense for you and your home. 

Whether you’re preparing for a first pet or for adding another into your life, this guide will help you get started:

Choosing the right domesticated animal: What to consider

The main thing to consider when choosing a pet is your current lifestyle. For instance, if you work full time or spend most of every day out of the house, highly co-dependent animals like dogs might not be a good fit. 

When thinking about household pets, consider their size, lifespan, exercise requirements and common temperament. Similar to when finding a human roommate, it’s important to be compatible with your pet.

How to prep your home for a pet

You might be ready to make your choice based on your lifestyle, but what about your home environment? There are steps you can take to prepare your living space for a new animal resident, starting with a deep clean. Organize and remove clutter, and consider relocating any fragile decor.

Small pets like guinea pigs and pet birds will require a dedicated enclosure in your home. Make sure to set up any cages, hutches or terrariums before bringing home the animal, so you have somewhere safe and comfortable for them to go right away.

How to introduce your pet into your home

The process of introducing a new pet into your home varies based on a variety of factors. Things like the number of people you live with, presence of other pets and intensity of external stimuli all can have an effect on your new pet. Be patient and take the introduction process slowly to not overwhelm your new friend or your housemates.

Continued pet care at home

Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment. Some of the most common pets - cats and dogs - have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Other animals like large birds or reptiles can live multiple decades with the right care. This is crucial for pet owners to consider when adding a new animal into their lives, as the pet you choose will be a significant part of your life.

Every situation is different, but these basic tips should help guide your decision. Choosing the perfect pet for your home and lifestyle isn’t an exact science, but following best practices for preparation will ensure happy cohabitation.

House Pets
Animals
About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.