Seeing a friend’s lazy and cute cat, or being melted by the enthusiasm of dogs in short videos, we often feel the urge to "get one too."
But pet companionship is a long-term commitment of ten years or more—not just a moment of sweetness.
Choosing your first pet scientifically is not only responsible for yourself but also a solemn promise to a life.
Today, A-Pai will teach you step-by-step how to pick your first pet.
Step 1: Self-Assessment (The Most Important Precondition)
Before browsing photos of "fur babies," sincerely answer these questions about yourself:
1. Are You an Extrovert (E-person) or Introvert (I-person)?
An energetic dog will wear out someone who likes quiet reading; a dog that needs plenty of running and play will only feel depressed and frustrated with a couch-potato owner.
2. What’s Your Work Schedule Like?
If you often work overtime or travel, a cat or adult pet that needs more alone time may be more suitable. Puppies and some high-need dog breeds cannot tolerate long periods of loneliness.
Recurring Costs: High-quality pet food, regular deworming, annual physical exams, pet insurance.
Potential Risks: Medical expenses for sudden illness or accidents (which can be substantial).
4. What’s Your Living Environment?
Do you live in a rental apartment or a house with a yard? Large dogs will struggle to turn around in small spaces, while cats need vertical space (cat trees) to satisfy their climbing needs. If you rent, does your landlord allow pets? Are there restrictions on breed/size?
5. Do Family Members Have Objections?
Is anyone in the family allergic? (It’s recommended to interact with similar pets first for a test.) Are there young children or elderly family members? Choose a pet with a gentle, patient temperament. Do all family members agree and are willing to share responsibilities?
6. What Are Your Future Plans?
Do you plan to move, get married, or have children in the next few years? Can your pet adapt to these changes?
Step 2: Choose Between a Cat or Dog That Fits You
Step 3: Where to Get Your Pet?
Adoption Instead of Purchase (First Choice!)
Save a life and give it a home. Charitable organizations usually spay/neuter, vaccinate, and deworm pets in advance. Adult pets have stable personalities, and staff can provide detailed information about their traits—avoiding the "luck of the draw."
If You Must Purchase: Choose a Responsible Seller
A responsible seller will allow you to visit their premises (which should be clean and tidy). They will care about your family situation to ensure you can provide a good home. They will proactively provide information about the pet’s parents and health screening certificates. They won’t breed multiple breeds at the same time and will have in-depth knowledge of the breed.
Beware of Backyard Breeders and Pet Stores!
They usually prioritize profit over animal welfare and genetic disease screening.
Step 4: Meet the Candidate Pet In Person
Whether adopting or purchasing, an in-person meeting is crucial.
Observe Its Behavior: Does it approach you curiously, or cower in a corner in fear? Choose one that vibes with you and interacts well.
Trust Your Instinct: The one that makes you "fall in love at first sight" and warms your heart when you make eye contact is often the right fit.
Choosing a pet scientifically is not a cold decision-making process, but a respectful conversation with a life.
It’s about your happiness for the next ten years, and even more about the well-being of a life for its entire lifetime.
When you’ve made all rational preparations, let go of romantic illusions, and still decide to love it—
That right pet will truly and steadily walk into your life.
At that moment, your story will be the best opening chapter about love and companionship.
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