How to pick your perfect pet

Whether you go loopy for a labradoodle or you’d love a bengal cat to bound around your home, it’s important to look beyond their appearance when picking a pet.

Everything from where you live and your lifestyle to their temperament and exercise requirements will determine what makes your perfect pet.

Your lifestyle and your pet

As pets require space to play and relax, your home will be a major factor in what’s right for you. Sadly, if you live in a small, one-bed flat you may need to downsize your doggy dreams from great dane to dachshund.

Outdoor space can be particularly important for some pets. Although some cats are happy to stay indoors, most love to be able to get outside and have a good sniff of what’s been going on in their neighbourhood.

Think about your work responsibilities too. If you work full-time or have to travel for business, how will you ensure your pet gets the attention they need while you’re away? Similarly, if you’ve got kids, this may also influence your choice. The Blue Cross recommends looking for a friendly, confident dog rather than going for a particular breed.

Meeting your pet’s needs

As well as space, pets will have other needs that you’ll want to meet. Alongside the basics such as food, water and a comfy place to sleep, most will need some sort of exercise.

For a cat, this might mean playing with a ball or fishing rod toy, while dogs love to go for walks. How long and often they’ll want to go for varies with breeds, so find out before you commit yourself to several long walks a day.

Many pets will also need grooming. For a fluffy cat or furry dog, this will help to ensure they have a healthy coat. Short-haired pets can also benefit from a regular brush. Some adore the attention but it’ll help you spot anything unusual such as lumps, skin conditions or ticks.

Costs of owning a pet

You should think about the cost of owning a pet, as this can range from hundreds to thousands of pounds a year. Alongside the cost of everyday items such as their food, flea and worm treatment and annual vaccinations, you might want to factor in fees for kennels, pet-sitting and dog-walking if they’ll be needed.

A pet’s health can also affect costs, with some breeds and older animals more likely to develop health problems. Many pet owners take out insurance to help them manage these costs and ensure their cat or dog can get treatment if it’s needed.

Adopting your new pet

If you are thinking about getting a new pet, consider whether you could give a home to a rescue animal. As well as giving them a second chance, you’ll be able to pick a pet personality that suits you. A registered animal charity or rescue centre will also give your pet a health check and make sure they’re neutered, microchipped and vaccinated.

If you’ve got your heart set on a particular breed, there may be rescue options available. If that isn’t possible, make sure you use a reputable breeder. A vet or breed club will be able to recommend one.

Whatever you go for and however you bring home your new pet, spending some time thinking about what’s right for you will help you select one that brings many years of happiness.

Whether you go for a pedigree pooch, a rescue moggy or take on a kitten from a friend’s litter, a pet insurance policy from Co-op Insurance can help you look after their health.

We offer a range of policies for cats and dogs of all shapes, sizes and ages over eight weeks. Visit our pet insurance page to find out more and get a quote for your new arrival.