Choosing a new pet

Choosing a new pet for the family can be very exciting. However, it is essential that you consider a few important things before making your final choice.

1. Do you want a dog, cat, rabbit, ferret, rats or mice?
Reason – different types of pets have there own different personalities and caring requirements

2. What breed of dog or cat do you want?
Reason- different breeds have different characteristics and caring requirements

3. Does anyone have any allergies in the family?
Reason – this may determine what pet you get as cat hair is more allergenic, and long haired dogs lose less hair so are less allergenic.

4. How much time do you have to walk or play with your new pet?
a. Reason – this determines how active a pet you may want

5. Do you have time to brush?
a. Reason – this may determine if you get a long haired pet- as they need regular brushing and grooming

Choosing a breed of dog or cat

Firstly, if you have decided on getting a dog or cat then there is a great web site called “select a pet”. On this website you will asked a number questions that will help to determine what breeds may be suitable for you or your family.

Finding out more information about dog breeds

Once you have chosen which breed of dog you would like, it is a good idea to find out the characteristics of the breed and what disease conditions they may be predisposed to getting.

Finding a breeder

Pure breed dogs and cats are best bought from a reputable breeder.
Below are the links to the NSW dog and cat breeders association.
Dog: http://www.dogsnsw.org.au/breeders-directory
Cat: http://www.nswcfa.asn.au

Saving a strays life

It is a great idea to re-home a dog or cat. Just remember these pets have been abandoned so they often require extra TLC to make sure they fit into their new home. Sometimes this will include talking to trainers or behaviour specialists to smooth out any under lying behavioural issues.
If you would love to save a stray pet then follow links below:
http://www.petrescue.com.au/shelter_directory/nsw
http://www.dogs4sale.com.au/Rescue_Organisations.htm#NSW
http://www.paws.com.au

Choosing your new dog

Once you have spoken to a number of breeders or re-homing shelters, you now need to make a visit to see what your potential new puppy is like.

Firstly, if you are visiting a breeder, ask to see the parents of your potential new pet, as this is the best indication of what they will turn out like. Check out their temperament (most important), teeth, coat condition and type and ears for anything abnormal.

Now it is time to view the puppies in a comfortable surrounding, to watch what they do. The first one that comes bounding up will have a very out going personality. The one that sits in the back ground or lies down is either very reserved or possibly sick.
The best puppy to choose is the one that wanders up slowly to check out the new owner as this puppy is neither boisterous or shy.

If you are checking out a pet from a re-homing shelter it is similar. Get the carer to let the pet wander free in an enclosed space and see how it relates to you when you call it. Does bound up to you, run away or ideally wander up to a show interest in a pat?

Good luck and if you any questions please feel free to talk to one of our Vet Med Vets or nurses for helpful advice.