If you're searching for really terrific pets, you may want to
take a little walk into the unusual. While dogs and cats -
arguably the two most common and beloved pets - are good
choices, there are some other animals out there that may very
well be better suited to your lifestyle.
To find the perfect pet, start by examining your reasons for
wanting to take this step. That reason is very important. For
example, if you're looking for companionship, a turtle probably
isn't the best answer. But if you have a child and you're
looking for a pet to help teach responsibility, a turtle may be
just what you need. Here are some other pets that may not have
immediately come to mind.
Gerbils, hamsters and mice - Yes, they're rodents and that may
be an immediate turn-off for some people, but these little guys
can be really good pets for several reasons. They don't take up
much room, they don't eat much and they're fairly easy to care
for. On the downside, they also tend to have shorter life spans
than some other animals, meaning the kids (and adults) who
become attached to them face the heartbreak of losing their pet
sooner. Remember that they still take care, even though they're
very small. Cages can become very smelly if not cleaned
regularly.
Hermit crabs - These are a recent hit with many people and
you'll find that hermit crabs are readily available in malls and
pet stores. They're not cuddly and they're very shy, but there
are some positive points. If handled carefully and often, they
can become quite friendly. Children can learn a lot from
watching them drink, burrow and change shells. Care is minimal
and the biggest routine chore is probably keeping the sponges
wet (hermit crabs drink from a sponge).
Prairie dogs - Quite a few people have discovered that these
furry little guys make great indoor pets. They're inquisitive
and most have very unique personalities. If raised in captivity,
a prairie dog will typically be happy to remain inside with no
attempts at escape. They can be litter box trained and many
families report that their prairie dogs have free roam of the
house. The downsides include the fact that these animals like to
chew. If trained well, they'll chew only in designated places,
but furniture and clothing can become casualties of their need
to gnaw. Remember, they're wild animals and you should be
careful of your source to be sure you have a healthy animal.
There are plenty more options that you may not have considered.
If you're looking for great pets, don't immediately assume that
a cat or dog are your only choices.
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