Every single one of us lives a different lifestyle, and it’s appropriate when choosing a pet to adopt, that we choose one that’s suitable for our lifestyles. In this article we’ll explore choosing the right pet for your lifestyle, to help you determine which type of fur-baby is right for you!

Consider Your Financial Situation.

The most important factor to consider before thinking about adopting a pet is your financial situation. You’ll need to ask yourself if you're able to afford caring for your pet which includes affording regular checkups, vaccinations, spaying & neutering, an appropriate diet and purchasing their necessary accessories. Another important factor to consider is if you’ll be able to afford relocation expenses if you ever were to move to another country. 

What Type Of Home Do You Have?

Before you consider adopting a pet, you’ll need to consider the type of home you live in, you’ll have to ensure that your pet will be able to live in the space provided comfortably and happily. 

Studio Apartment Dwelling:

In a studio apartment, you don’t really have much room for larger pets like dogs, which is why you should consider choosing a smaller sized pet. Firstly, there are cats. Cats don’t require regular walks, and as long as your apartment is big enough for them to move around freely, they should be able to live comfortably. Depending on the size of your studio apartment, it would be recommended to only have a maximum of 2 cats so that they’re not too cramped or feeling trapped in close quarters. Considering how much free space you have, you could also consider smaller pets, like hamsters, small birds or even a betta fish. 

1 Bedroom Or More Apartment Dwelling:

With more room around an apartment with one or more bedrooms, you might be able to consider adopting a smaller sized dog, but they will require walks at least twice a day and regular trips outside to go to the “toilet”. You might also need to invest in pee pads in your apartment in case of any “accidents” while you’re out during the day. Cats would be ideal for apartments with one or more bedrooms as you could include spaces for them with a cat tree, litter box and bed for them to live happily and comfortably. If you have extra space, you might even be able to adopt a rabbit, guinea pig, or even ferret provided you have room for an enclosure when they’re unsupervised. With free roaming smaller pets such as these, you’ll also need to ensure your apartment is pet-proofed. You can read more about how you can efficiently pet-proof your home here. Smaller, encaged pets like hamsters, small to larger birds and aquarium fish would also make great pets in these types of apartments. 

Villa/House Dwelling:

Most villas and houses have their own dedicated back yards, making them ideal for families looking to adopt dogs of any size and breed. Your dogs will still require regular walks to keep up with their exercise needs, but with a garden they’ll be able to go outside to use the toilet or play at their own discretion. Cats will also thrive in larger homes as they’ll have more space and freedom to explore and run around, you’ll also be able to adopt more than one, provided they get along. You’ll also have space to adopt smaller pets if you aren’t looking to adopt a cat or dog. Rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, birds of all sizes, hamsters, and aquarium fish would be ideal for this type of home. 

What Is Your Day-To-Day Lifestyle?

When thinking about adopting a pet, you'll have to consider what your day-to-day schedule is like. Do you travel often? What are your work hours? 

Standard Office Work Hours:

When working a regular 8 hour job, you’ll need to take your work schedule into consideration when adopting a pet. Cats and some smaller pets are very much independent, so they can be left alone during the day, as long as they receive plenty of attention when you get home. Most dogs are fine with being left alone during the day, but others may suffer from separation anxiety and may need a consultation with a pet behaviorist, trainer or even veterinarian. You could also consider using natural calming remedies like Adaptil or Feliway to help your pet get used to being alone when you’re at work. Be sure to walk your dogs before and after work to help them get rid of any pent up energy, and provide them with lots of attention when you are at home. You’ll also need to plan their feeding schedule accordingly to help them adapt to your daily routine, 

Work-From Home / Stay At Home Parent:

When you’re at home during the day, your pets won’t have to worry about feeling alone as much. Pets like dogs require a lot of attention throughout the day, which makes them ideal for this type of lifestyle. You’ll be able to play with them or take them on quick walks during your breaks or immediately after you finish work, and you’ll be able to keep up with their feeding schedule and training according to your own schedule. While cats and most smaller pets may be mostly independent, they’ll still appreciate having you at home during the day keeping them company, and like dogs, you can dedicate time during your breaks towards giving them attention through feedings, playtimes and training. 

Being Away For Extended Periods Of Time: 

In cases like this, unless you have another person living with you that can care for your pets, it’s recommended that you don’t adopt any pets if you’ll be away from home for extended periods, for example; if your job requires you to travel on a frequent basis. 

Part of being a responsible pet parent is considering whether or not your lifestyle and financial situation is appropriate for them. Make sure you consider all of these factors before committing to adopting a pet. A pet is a family member for years to come!