Questions to ask yourself
Yes, the health benefits are hard to deny. But if you’re still unsure, these questions can help you decide which pet is right for you. Does your living arrangement allow for pets? Many apartments and condos have strict rules on pet ownership. If you live in a small apartment, will there be enough space be enough for a dog to run around — and will its barking disturb the neighbors? Can you provide the care the pet needs? This is a major point to weigh. For example, a goldfish requires a daily sprinkle of food and a small fish bowl to clean. But a dog or cat will need exercise, annual vet checkups, regular grooming, and more. Howwell do your personalities match? Love to get out of the house for a brisk walk every morning? A dog might be right for you. Have limited mobility? An indoor cat will be better suited to you. Want to liven up your space with sound? A canary or finch will do the trick. What does your budget allow for? According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, you can expect to spend between $600 to $900 per year on a dog. By comparison, a fish will cost around $20 per year.
Katie Lajiness is the associate editor of Be.Well byMedica .
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