Tips for Picking the Perfect Pet
Article by Dr. Kurt Venator
(BPT) - Choosing the perfect pet for your family begins with doing your homework beforehand to determine the age, size and temperament of your ideal dog or cat. The whole family can share in the matchmaking fun. Will your newest family member be an independent feline or a playful, social cat? A rambunctious, energetic dog or a laid-back lap pup? Will you fall in love with a beautiful long-haired cat or a domestic shorthair? Will you choose a gorgeous long-coated dog or a wash-and-wear short-coat type?
Dr. Kurt Venator, Purina Chief Veterinary Officer, suggests, "If you are planning to bring a new pet into your family, take advantage of tools such as the Purina Dog and Cat Breed Selectors to help narrow down your choice. It also helps to look for a pet that has been fed a high-quality dog or cat food that provides optimal nutrition for a long, healthy life."
No matter where your search lands you - at a pet shelter, rescue organization or breeder - meeting potential pet companions is exciting. Purina is proud to support pet adoptions through the Purina Shelter Champions Partner Program. The 49 shelter partners located across the country adopted out 187,473 dogs and cats in 2018, making a sizable effort in finding forever homes for adoptable pets.
Here are four questions to consider in your search for the right pet. You may find the pet chooses you.
* What is your family dynamic? Does your family have young children under the age of 7? If so, a medium- or large-sized dog or an adult cat may be a better match than a kitten or puppy or a toy or small-sized dog that could be hurt during rowdy play. Are you an older adult seeking a companion? Consider an adult cat or a lap