Tips

• Adoption can help or even save the lives of animals and is extremely rewarding.
• Make sure that when you buy your pet that he/she likes you, and you like him.
• Use care in purchasing a pet from a pet shop. Some disreputable shops get their puppies and kitten from unregulated breeding centres This can mean the animals have genetic problems, which can cause behaviour problems or physical problems which will require veterinary care.
• Do check into local rescue groups or shelters for your perfect pet.
• You may want to start small like a fish then build up to like a hamster or rodent and see if pets are your thing. When you're ready try the harder pets but remember to know everything there is to know before buying a pet! Otherwise if you are confident enough then you may go for a cat or dog or reptile.
• Always research about a pet before you buy it. It will help you take care of it's needs.
• Don't get frightened by all of this. A pet can be a loving addition to your life and family, and the simple work and responsibility is well worth it. Surely you still must be responsible and caring.

• If your parents say no, try dog walking, pet sitting, or volunteering at an animal shelter to show your parents how much you want to be involved with animals. Then tell your parents that you will buy all of the equipment for the animal yourself, if possible.
• If you really like two pets, ask your parents which one they'd prefer.

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Warnings

• Most importantly, remember to be patient. Keeping a pet is not always easy. Most animals establish their presence in your life in a very strong way and keeping things neat and ordered all the time will be impossible. Always try to keep in mind how important the pet is to you and that having one is a very rewarding experience.
• Pets are for life.
• The same applies for fish. Do not release store bought fish in a lake or river or ocean, the fish will die for many reasons. Your fish was bred for an aquarium with chemicals, it could poison the lake.
• Different animals have different requirements. Dogs need open spaces to run around, and cats need to come and go as they please. Birds are social animals and require a buddy or a mate. Make sure you can provide for these requirements before getting a pet.
• If you don't want a lizard or reptile you already have, don't release it in the nearest field! This is very bad for the environment and the lizard will most likely die.
• Think about size. If you live in an apartment, you probably should not get a pet that doesn't suite your habitat.
• If you are allergic to dogs or cats, getting one may be risky. Try borrowing a friend's first.