In reality there are no "perfect Pets", every pet has its pros and cons, and I would like to discuss some of those with you so you can make the right choice. Remember a pet is a "LIFETIME COMMITMENT", the lifespan of the pet is very important. Discuss your own lifestyle, do you want a pet you can leave for a day or two, or are one who is okay with the day to day needs of an animal? How much time per day do you have to devote to a pet?
If people make better decisions BEFORE getting a pet, then hopefully there will be fewer abandoned at animal shelters. ALL neglected pets have a risk of becoming destructive, and sadly this is one reason often given by people who surrender their pets.
Note To Parents:
It is always risky to refer to any pet as belonging to a child. A child is not the one paying for the supplies, or food. They are not the ones accepting the responsibility, most stores will not sell to children, and animal shelters will not adopt to people under 18 yrs, therefore it is YOU who is accepting the title as owner. The care of the animal ultimately lies with you. If you are not ready for that, please do not get a pet. Also consider the lifespan of the pet, if you are not able to care for it after your child leaves for College, or moves out, then do not get a pet, most places will not allow pets. When YOU pick a pet, pick a pet YOU want, yes the child can help, but you must be realistic that you will have to give reminders and occasional help, as well, you may be required to take over all the responsibility at some point. If you are the type of parent feels like saying to your child: "If you do not look after it, we get rid of it", this is a warning sign not to get a pet, it is unfair to the animal, who will be discarded for no fault of their own.
Hamster
Pros: Small, cheap, easy to find in shops, and are "cute".
Cons: They are nocturnal, so will keep you awake at night. They are prone to biting, especially if not handled a lot.
Gerbil
Pros: Small, cheap, often for sale in shops, you may house more than one in the same cage (but bewared of unwanted offspring.)
Cons: They look like rats, some people don't like them because of this. Very limited on color choice. They are prone to biting, if not handled regularly.
Guinea Pig
Pros: Less likely to bite than smaller rodents. They "talk" to you - so are easier to bond with. They come in a variety of colors and hair patterns.
Cons: Bigger pets, require bigger cages and more care. Require Vitamin C, and regularly handling.
Rabbit
Pros: Less likely to bite than smaller rodents. Many different sizes and colors to choose from. Can be "litter trained" and kept loose in house.
Cons: Require a larger cage and have a longer lifespan. Will chew cords.
Mouse
Pros: Easy to find in stores, inexpensive, small.
Cons: Smelly, prone to bite, rate like appearance may bother some parents.
Rat
Pros: Shorter lifespans mean less commitment. Can be very social.
Cons: Illegal in some areas, prone to health issues, especially cancer.
Hedgehog
Pros: No odor. Small.
Cons: Hard to find, may be expensive, special diet concerns, nocturnal.
Ferrets
Pros: Can be harness trained to go for "walks".
Cons: Require a lot of time out of the cage. These are NOT "low maintenance" pets. Need special food, big cages and they can have a bad odor if not de-scented.
Fish
Pros: Do not require extensive care daily, (can be left for a longer period of time, than most pets) come in many different kinds. Different price ranges.
Cons: Tanks are expensive, one small mistake may kill the fish. They are not "cuddly" so are easily neglected. Do require regular tank maintenance.
Bird
Pros: Entertaining, may different sizes, colors, and behaviors.
Cons: Messy, often cause allergies, need cages often bigger than they are kept in, some of the bigger ones will get destructive if bored. As some birds to not like being handled, they may be tougher to bond with.
Reptile or Amphibian
Pros: Good for people who have allergies. Lots of varieties. Do not require regular handling.
Cons: Some require expensive set ups, and tanks. Some require live food. Some (eg. Turtles) can carry diseases so you MUST wash your hands before and after handling. Each have very specific needs.
Cat
Pros: Easy to obtain, lots of knowledge about their care. Easy to find supplies and food. Do not require caging. Will provide entertainment. Can be left alone for a day or two.
Cons: Kittens are claw aggressive, and destructive. Longer lifespan. Costly ongoing upkeep in terms of food, litter, and veterinary care.
Dog
Pros: Lots of resources available, many different breeds to suit different lifestyles, good bonding.
Cons: Some breeds are extremely high maintenance, if their mental needs are not met, they will be destructive. Costly ongoing upkeep in terms of feeding and veterinary care. Puppies must be house trained, and obedience trained. Cannot be left alone for long.
