Will a pet fit into your family?

Dog. Man’s best friend.

But a dog, or a cat, or any number of pets can be the best friend of a little boy or a little girl, too.

Your child might be clamoring for a pet. And the idea is growing on you, as you envision all the fun your family can have watching a pup prance around your backyard or at one of many fabulous dog parks in the Albany area, such as the Normanskill Farm Dog Park or the Town of Bethlehem Dog Park.

But how do you know if your family -- and you -- are ready for the responsibility of a pet? Here are some questions to ponder, and research, before you take the plunge into pet parenthood, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association:

• Will your current pet, if you have one, accept the addition of a new pet in the family? 
• What qualities are you seeking in a pet? A cuddly lap kitty? An energetic dog who wants to run alongside you as you jog?
• Does your landlord allow pets? Are your home and yard large enough to accommodate a big dog, if that’s the breed you choose?
• Do you have enough time and attention to devote to your pet? And are you willing to live with the pet for a number of years? Some birds, for instance, live long, long lives.
• Can you afford to care for your pet? That includes food, housing, grooming, veterinary care and more.
• Do your work and personal schedules allow you enough time to care for your pet? If you work long hours, you might not have the time to devote to pets who need frequent exercise or feeding.
• If, for some reason, you can no longer care for the pet, is there someone who could?
• Do you envision any life changes, such as a new baby, that might impact your ability to care for the pet?​​

​If, after considering these questions, you decide pet ownership is right for your family, check out the American Veterinary Medical Association website for tips on selecting the perfect pet. The time investment you make in researching the pet that fits your lifestyle and will mesh with your family will pay off.