The decision to bring a pet into a family is an important one. There are many options to choose from. We will address many of these choices but remind you to take a close look at your particular situation when making a pet decision.

Lets first make an assumption. You have extra time, space and money required by the new pet. OK!

The choice of which pet to purchase is an adult decision! Do not be swayed by the emotional desires of a child. A wrong choice can lead to an unhappy family and an abused or neglected pet. Through education, a child can be very happy with an adult's pet decision and most of the time is merely concerned about having a new friend.

Cat or Dog? Or both? Cats and dogs both offer companionship, love and affection but in different ways. Please remember the following are general facts, each person has a different story about their pet! A quick look at some of the pros and cons:

Cats are easier to keep in the sense that they can use a litter box, eat less and take up less space. They tend to be more able to entertain themselves and can be left alone longer than most dogs. Cats offer a very special kind of love to their owners. These are significant benefits, especially to first time pet owners. Cats are indoor pets and should never be let out unless on leash. Negatives, that can be overcome, are that they can damage furniture and can leave a smell in your home.

Dogs require more maintenance but are more versatile. Dogs are great companions for travel and outdoor activities. Dogs tend to be more interactive and trainable. You must have a large yard for all but the smallest dogs. A humane containment system such as a fence or invisible fence is necessary. Please refer to our 5 Step Puppy Plan for great decision and preparation information or our Mixed Breed vs. Pure Bred page for that important decision.

HUMANE SHELTERS - Very often the best choice is to go to your local humane agencies and look at the cats and dogs that are up for adoption. Sometimes being able to see a pet firsthand and learning a little about its personality will be a great help in selecting a pet. Most people don't realize that a humane agency is the best place to view a variety of sizes, breeds and personalities. Also, saving a pet's life is a wonderful, rewarding act!

PUREBRED PETS - First we would like to say be sure you are in need of a pure bred pet before considering one.  Most are purchased, at least partially, as a status symbol; that is no reason to purchase a companion. Secondly, every pet that is bred represents one in a shelter that does not get adopted and ultimately euthanized. Also pure bred pets are more costly in almost all aspects and have more health problems that pure bred pets. Please see the Pure Bred vs. Mixed Breed page.

When looking for a purebred pet there are a number of options. First, you should remember that the local humane agencies very often have pure bred cats and dogs. Books are also a great source of information. Be sure to purchase at least three books as authors' opinions often differ. Local clubs often offer shows which give you an excellent opportunity to meet breeders and ask questions. After you have chosen a breed, talk to many different breeders before making your choice. The final decision will be when you see a puppy that pulls on your heart.

Both types of pets are better off in twos, yes we said it, two pets are better than one! Two pets will entertain themselves and learn from each other while you are away. But be prepared for slightly higher maintenance and vet bills.

Both cats and dogs need proper identification for their protection. There is no better protection than the APA's Guardian and Guardian VIP programs.

Proper vet care is required throughout your pet's life. Make sure you are financially prepared before you get a pet.