Can’t bear the thought of leaving your four-legged friend behind these holidays? Follow these expert tips to keep them safe and happy.
Pets
What pet should I get? Finding the best pet for your personality
Pets aren’t just for those who have time for walks, grooming, and feeding. There’s a pet to match everyone's commitment and energy level.
In Australia, we love our pets. According to the RSPCA, 61 per cent of households have at least one - equating to about 29 million pets in total.
It’s not hard to see why. Pets bring companionship, happiness, fun, love, and can increase our well-being. During the pandemic, our love for animal friends skyrocketed, to the point where over 60 per cent of owners referred to their pets as ‘part of the family.’
Depending on the variety of pet you get, it can require a lot of commitment, care and responsibility, and there are many things to consider before bringing one home. Cuddling a dog or bunny rabbit may be a cute idea, but there may be a lot of work and responsibility to consider for the remainder of this pet’s life, both outside and inside the home.
So based on your personality and lifestyle, which pet should you get?
Pets become part of the family. Image: Getty
What pet is right for you?
The best pet for beginners
Whether you have recently moved into your own place, have a very busy lifestyle, or have kids that are ready to take on some responsibility, there are plenty of pets that require some love an attention, without consuming all your free time.
The best pet for you: a fish.
No matter if you spend a lot of time outside of the home – at work, school, or social events, having a fish can be your perfect companion.
While goldfish can be somewhat sedentary, fish in general are by no means a set-and-forget pet. Nemo's tank or bowl will require regular cleaning and feeding, and if you're up for more of a challenge, consider tropical fish or other sea creatures that require specific diets and water temperatures.
The best pet for farm lovers
If you love animals of every shape, size and smell, and your friends call you Old McDonald, maybe it's time to embrace your inner farmer and embrace the animal farm life.
The best pet for you: chickens, goats, horses and cows.
Victoria is a vast land with plenty of opportunities to set up a hobby farm - granted you will probably be a fair drive from any major city.
So, if nothing makes you happier than early mornings, days in nature, and watching your animals grow, you may want to make animals your life’s work by training them and giving them large a home to roam.
If the country life isn't for you, or you want to start small, consider starting small with some backyard chickens.
Pets have been known to help improve mental and physical wellbeing, enriching our lives and teaching us to care for a being other than ourselves. Image: Getty
The best pet for calm companionship
Whether you're a homebody who loves nothing more than curling up in an armchair with a good book, or if you're living for the nightlife and day-trip adventures, owning a pet can sometimes be a burden.
If you’re not really into the idea of running around with a dog or cleaning out rabbit cages, but you’re looking for a quiet companion to love on those cosy nights in, then there is a perfect option for you.
The best pet for you: a cat.
Cats suit a myriad of people, from young families looking for a pet without the need for constant exercise and supervision, to older people looking for some company and a pet to care for and cuddle.
Why not adopt one in need of a good home?
The best pet for active people
If you’re an active person and love nothing more than exploring new parks, places, and meeting new people, your ideal pet is one that can truly become your furry friend. If your'e looking to build a lasting relationship and create timeless memories, there is a new best friend waiting for you.
The best pet for you: a dog.
If you're ready for the responsibility of caring for a pet that can interact with you, can be trained, and can come along on days out, drives and holidays - wait no longer.
There’s work involved, but if you’re looking forward to caring for a mammal other than yourself, and embrace all the love it can bring, find out which breed is right for you.
You'll need some erergy to keep up with these happy pets at the park! Image: Getty
The best pet for cuddling
Not everyone is ready or wanting of the full-time responsibility that comes with owning a dog, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on adding a furry animal to your family. There are some in particular that are perfect for those living in smaller homes, and apartment-living.
The best pet for you: a rabbit, guinea pig, or ferret.
While some will call them rodents and pests, these animals are cute and ready to cuddle. All animals have their own behaviour patterns, but these furry fellows are good with kids, and can teach responsibility without the need for training and daily walks.
Just remember to ensure your pet gets room to run around, and someone has been designated responsibility for cleaning out the hatch!
The best pet for people who can't be bothered
While the idea of a pet sounds cool, in theory, and you just don’t have the energy or mental stamina, there's still a perfect pet out there for you.
The best pet for you: Pet rock. Treat it well!
Perfect for those who are away a lot, have a history of letting plants die, lose interest in things quickly, or simply do not have the time to devote to a pet.
