So Your Kids Want a Pet: 8 Questions to Ask Before Picking One

If you didn't have a family pet before your kids arrived on the scene, there's no doubt that at some point, they'll start asking for a feathered or furry friend of their own. Before you make what could end up being a fairly major commitment, do your research, and know what you're getting into. These eight questions should help determine whether your crew's best suited for a goldfish or a Golden Retriever. Source: Thinkstock

Is Everyone in Agreement?
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Is Everyone in Agreement?

While there's often a single driving force behind the decision to add an animal into the mix of your family, it's important that everyone's on board before you make the leap. If anyone's allergic, afraid, or just not into the idea, then figure out a solution, or table the conversation until circumstances have changed.

Who's Going to Be Responsible?

Who's Going to Be Responsible?

If you're talking about giving a fish a few pinches of flaked food a day, it's one thing. If you're rescuing a shelter dog, you'll need to consider obedience training, walks, vet visits . . . The list goes on. Ideally, both parents will be on board, and if your kids are old enough to shoulder some of the responsibility, then set realistic expectations from the start. Source: Instagram user chikfromthesticks

What's It Going to Cost?

What's It Going to Cost?

If you're already operating on a tight budget, then think seriously about what the pet under consideration will cost. Factors to consider? An insurance policy (seriously!), unexpected vet visits, dog walkers, kitty litter, pet sitters, obedience, and so on and so forth. Be realistic, so you don't end up with sticker shock after it's too late! Source: Instagram user sonyasart

Where Are We Going to Get It?

Where Are We Going to Get It?

The local pet shop, a shelter, a breeder? While adopting a shelter animal is a noble deed, it's not without its risks. On the flip side, getting a pet from a breeder is pricey. Make sure you're on the same page before you start your search. Source: Instagram user iamalwayshappy

Will It Be a Good Fit For Our Family?

Will It Be a Good Fit For Our Family?

Study up on your breeds before you make your decision. You won't want to bring a dog with a tendency toward aggression or dominance into a house with babies or little kids. In addition to opting for a breed (or mutt!) that offers family-friendly qualities, make sure that everyone's comfortable with the actual dog under consideration as well. Photo: Lisa Horten

What Will It Do All Day?
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What Will It Do All Day?

What's your household like on an average day? Who's home? Where's your pup going to get his stimulation, and how's he going to get exercise? Don't set yourself up for a guilt trip. Pick a pet whose needs you can meet, not one that needs three walks a day when you barely have time for a stroll down the block.

Do We Have a Good Backup Plan?

Do We Have a Good Backup Plan?

Different pets require different levels of care and attention. While a fish, turtle, or even cat is A-OK for hours on end, dogs need attention, affection, and, of course, bathroom breaks. If both parents work, will you have a walker come to the house in the middle of the day? How about if you get stuck at the office late? If your family travels frequently, a reliable (and available) pet sitter is essential. Source: American Kennel Club

Is Now the Best Time?
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Is Now the Best Time?

Think about the "state of the union" in your household before you rock the boat. If you're already dealing with a new baby, new house, new job, or even a child going through a tough time in school, you may want to wait until things have settled down a bit to bring on your furry (or scaly) new addition.