So you want a pet, do you?

Looking after a pet is a big responsibility. A pet is not just a playmate for you. A pet needs a lot of care and attention (as well as love) - just like you really - so you need to show the adults in your home that you are willing to help look after your pet, as well as play with him/her. Looking after your pet means you will need to help with feeding, cleaning (such as grooming, cleaning out the cage or cleaning out the tank) and exercise.

It’s a good idea to go for something that is low maintenance such as rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils or mice.  These pets are generally cheap to keep and are also fun.  Hamsters are also good although they do tend to sleep during the day and come out at night.

These animals make good pets but you need to keep them clean, fed and watered. You still need to do your research though and make sure that you know if any outside pets need special winter care such as somewhere warm and sheltered to put them when it is frosty.  Food and bedding are cheap too.

Cats can make great pets but many rescue centres do not allow kittens to go to homes with young children because a toddler’s loving hug might just be a little too hard for a tiny kitten.  An older cat may not be used to children and if the cat feels under threat, it may protect itself with a claw. Different breeds of dog behave in different ways, so get some advice when choosing a dog.

Here are some questions to think about before deciding on the pet for your family:

Some animals can live for years, can’t they? Am I ready for this?

We go on holidays, don’t we? Who will look after the pet when we are away?

How much space do we have for a pet and will it live inside or outside?

Some pets are smelly or noisy, aren’t they? Will I like this?

Animals get lonely, don’t they? Can the pet be left for a long time while we are at school/work?