Hi, I currently own fish and was thinking about getting a more interactive pet.
Some facts about myself and what I'm looking for in a pet:
- I prefer cuddly and affectionate pets.
- I don't like small rodents like mice, rats, hamsters or guinea pigs. I've had them before and they left a bad impression on me despite taking good care, and I don't want to try again. People always recommend me rats and they're just not my thing.
- Preferably something that does not need heat lamps/filters/any type of special equipment.
- I don't have allergies to fur, but my brother does. It is not severe at all, as long as fur doesn't go near his face and he doesn't get licked, he'll be fine. He's been with heavy shedding dog breeds and he didn't have allergic reactions.
- I am in high school right now but I have around 5-7 hours daily to devote to an animal.
- I am planning to go to nearby colleges that are in-state, so no flying or anything of that sort. I know I can't bring any animals my first year and my parents have agreed to take care of any pets I get. I would love to bring my pet along with me, but I understand that I'll be really busy, so maybe a lower maintenance animal could be a good choice. However, from my research pet-friendly off campus housing tends to only allow dogs and cats for animals (someone else please correct me if I'm wrong!)
- Nothing too loud. I can deal with noise, but for smell, preferably not too stinky. I can deal with things like litter box smell or doggy breath but not things like mice or ferrets.
- My parents are pretty supportive. They prefer animals that are contained but don't mind if the animal is let out a few times each day. For pets like cats and dogs that are always out, they're mainly concerned about destruction of furniture and hair being everywhere, which is something that I might be able to change with a bit of convincing.
- Budget: My parents can afford, and are willing to pay for the animal, it's food, vet bills, as long as I show I'm responsible for taking care of it. However, I feel bad about this and I'm planning to make some money so they won't have to pay as much. With what I'm currently doing, I think I'll be able to make $500 yearly (I'm still pretty young so no part time jobs yet, but in a few years I'll apply)
And finally, my thoughts (and my family's) on each animal I've considered:
- Dogs
Me: I love them a lot and they're my first choice. I'm willing to put in the time and effort for caring for one.
Family: Seems like a lot of responsibility with all the walking and training, but they are loyal and can guard the house. Also concerned about shedding.
- Cats
Me: They're cute but don't seem as affectionate as dogs. All the cats I've met don't really do much and don't like humans.
Family: Cute, but might destroy/knock things over. Also may pee outside of the litter box, and concerned about shedding.
- Rabbits
Me: They're really cute and I like their personality, how they're not as outgoing as dogs and not as reserved as cats. However they do seem expensive with all their exotic vet bills.
Family: Cute, and they're a good choice because they don't have to always run around the house. Thinks that rabbits will pee on the walls and smell bad.
- Leopard Geckos
Me: They're alright. Don't seem very interactive or affectionate.
Family: Dad LOVES them, but rest of family doesn't care a lot.
- Snakes
Me: I find them cute and really fascinating animals. They're fun to both hold and watch. Concerned about what will I do with the snake in college, as family doesn't like them.
Family: Think they are scary, but if that's what I'm into, they'll deal with it.
- Birds
Me: They're cute and affectionate but I'm concerned about their noise and mess. They also seem expensive.
Family: Dad likes talking parrots (but I don't think we have the time, dedication or experience to care for one properly.) Rest of the family doesn't really care too much.
- Goats (they're legal where I live!)
Me: They're just too cute and I adore their personalities. Considering how they're a farm animal, their care seems kind of advanced. Also concerns about fencing, and them destroying my lawn
Family: Weird, but ok. Thinks goats will eat all our vegetable plants, stink, and be really loud.
Thanks!
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from Pets https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/comments/bww1sr/suggest_a_pet_for_me/
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