White Pages® News

Purchasing a pet

September 17, 2012

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Whether it is furry or fluffy, feathered or finned, finding the perfect pet for your family requires some serious thought and research – after all, pets can be a key family member for up to 15 years.

When considering a pet for the first time, look at your lifestyle and surroundings first. How much time you have for a pet, the type of home you live in and your finances will all play a part in selecting a pet that is right for your family.

If you are tossing up between a dog or cat, consider taking this Purina quiz to find the breed that is right for your lifestyle.

Once you have looked into the breeds various traits and requirements and have an understanding of what will suit your family, it is time to start shopping.

Consider adopting a pet from a shelter or pound. Purchasing a pet this way has many benefits, as outlined by Victoria’s Department of Primary Industries, and gives an unwanted cat or dog a second chance at life.

Most pounds are run by local government, so contact your local council to find more out about adopting from the pound. Use White Pages® Government Search to get its contact details. While on the phone, remember to enquire about necessary permits, registration and de-sexing.

If you would rather purchase from a pet store, be aware of the issue of puppy mills and puppy farmers. The RSPCA has more on this issue, including a Smart Puppy Buyer’s Guide.

If a quirky, exotic pet is more your style, contact your state’s environmental department, using White Pages® Government Search to get the correct contacts and enquire whether the pet you are thinking of is legal in your area.

Exotic pets can be brought from specialist breeders and some exotic pet stores. The best way to track down a respected and trusted supplier is through recommendations from special interest groups, such as reptile clubs. Contact your local council or pet store if you can’t track one down online.

Once you have your pet, resist the urge to show it off to everyone in the first 24 hours. Your pet will be quite overwhelmed by such a dramatic change in scenery at first, and should be kept warm and in a quiet place – particularly if it is very young.

After that though, get ready for one of the most rewarding relationships of your life!