Are You Ready for a Pet?

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I own my house/condo

I rent my house/apartment

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If you're a homeowner and you want a dog, make sure you have a fenced-in yard. For those who own a condo or townhome, ask your association if there are certain restrictions on pets. Some allow cats and birds, but not dogs. Others have size or breed restrictions, as well a limit on how many pets you can have in your unit.

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Check with your landlord to learn whether he allows pets. If so, he might ask for a separate deposit or charge an extra fee per month. Keep in mind that from here on out, you'll need to make sure any place you're renting allows pets.

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We have a fenced-in yard

There is a dog park nearby

There is no yard or park in walking distance

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If you're considering a dog, you're all set! Dogs need ample exercise, and a yard can provide the space they need. However, they still benefit from daily walks.

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Make sure your dog is properly socialized before turning it loose with the other dogs. Introduce it gradually to the pack with each subsequent visit.

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You might want to consider a cat, bird or hamster for an animal companion, as they don't require as much space to roam as a dog.

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All the adults in the house work full time, often with unpredictable hours

I work part time, and my partner works full-time

We have teenagers who will help take care of the pet

We have one adult who is home by 5 p.m. every day

I stay at home full time

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A pet isn't out of the question, even with your busy lifestyle. However, your pet will rely on you, so if you have an erratic work schedule, consider hiring a dog walker or investing in pet daycare to make sure your pet is taken care of while you're at work.

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The majority of the pet's care may fall on your shoulders because of your more flexible schedule. Be sure to discuss the arrangement as a family to make sure any adjustments in your schedule can be accommodated if need be.

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Pets are a wonderful way to teach older children about responsibility, but even the most well-intended teen can be forgetful. Be sure your teens understand the consequences of not taking care of the family pet if it's their job.

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You're in a perfect situation to own a pet, but remember that in the early stages of your life together, especially if you adopt a kitten or puppy, there will be a period of adjustment for your pet. Being away all day might mean you're coming home to an accident or two.

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You're in an ideal situation to own a pet, from initial housebreaking to day-to-day maintenance and care.

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Does anyone in your house have pet allergies?

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Yes

No

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Consult an allergist before making any decisions about adopting a pet. If you decide you're still interested in expanding your family, consider an allergy-friendly pet.

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Do you have any limitations that would make caring for a pet difficult?

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Yes

No

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Make sure the pet you're considering is one you can handle. If your pet needs to be lifted, or if it tries to go after something, you'll need to be strong enough to handle it.

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Remember that strength isn't the only thing you'll need to handle a pet. Good training and patience go a long way.

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Yes

No

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Research the sort of pet you have in mind and make sure it's kid-friendly. If your children are younger, they may need to be eased into a relationship with the family pet. Make sure to spend the time acclimating everyone. And remember, pets are great ways to introduce responsibility to older children and teens. Teaching your children to respect and care for other living things is an important lesson!

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Consider whether you might have children in the future, or if you have relatives with small children who frequently visit. A kid-friendly pet will put everyone more at ease!

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Yes

No

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Consider how your pet is around other animals and if another addition will be welcome. Do some research and find out ways in which your animals can become friends.

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Consider if your pet needs companionship or if you'll consider getting another pet in the future.

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Yes

No

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Adding a pet can be a challenge for a relationship, as it's a major responsibility for both people. Introducing a pet into a stable environment will ensure it a happy, healthy, longer life.

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Divorces and separations affect pets too. If your relationship is rocky, reconsider bringing a new member into the family. Also, if you separate from your partner, consider whether you could afford to keep your pet.

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Yes

No

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Make sure you've considered all the costs associated with pet ownership, beyond the adoption fees. Stay on the safe side and do some research to estimate what your annual costs may be.

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You might want to wait until you're on more stable financial ground before bringing a pet into your life. Aside from food, toys and yearly shots, there are emergencies to consider, not to mention leashes, grooming, crates, microchips and the cost of caring for your pet as it gets older and needs more medical attention.

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Yes

No

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Make sure you've considered what you'll do with your pet while you're away. You may be lucky enough to have a family member who will watch your pet for free, but you may need to consider a boarding facility or pet hotel for longer trips.

Next: Why pets are good for your health

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Consider what you'll do with your pet if you and your family go on vacation, if that means leaving your pet with a trusted family member or a boarding facility.

Next: Why pets are good for your health