My Take Tuesday: Choosing the Right Pet

One of the most important decisions a family can make is bringing a new pet into their lives. It’s a joyful choice, but also one that deserves thoughtful consideration. Too often, pets are selected on impulse—because of a cute face, a childhood memory, or a passing trend. But unlike toys or hobbies, pets are living beings who rely on us completely. Their health, happiness, and very lives are shaped by the decisions we make at the start.

Different animals—and even different breeds within the same species—come with unique needs. A Border Collie, for example, is brimming with energy, bred for generations to herd sheep across open pastures. Without a daily outlet for that energy, he may invent his own activities—chewing, digging, or redecorating your living room. On the other end of the spectrum, a Bulldog may be content with a short walk and a nap by your side but will require careful attention to breathing and heat tolerance. The exercise requirements, grooming needs, and even temperaments of different breeds should weigh heavily in the decision.

I’ve seen the consequences firsthand when the match between pet and family isn’t quite right. One that stands out was a dog who ended up in my exam room more often than in his family’s living room. He was anxious, reactive, and ultimately not a good fit for the household. Most of his struggles came back to a lack of early socialization and training. It’s an important reminder: your pet is very much a product of the time, energy, and consistency you invest in them. Breed tendencies may set the stage, but it’s your commitment that writes the story.

It’s not only about breed tendencies, either. Lifestyle, home environment, and family dynamics matter just as much. A busy family that’s gone from morning until night may find a high-energy dog overwhelmed with loneliness and mischief. A cat might be a better fit—independent yet affectionate. Similarly, a small apartment may not be ideal for a Great Dane, no matter how gentle they are.

At the heart of this decision is responsibility. When we bring a pet home, we are making a promise—a promise to feed, exercise, train, provide medical care, and offer companionship for their entire life. Depending on the species, that could mean 10, 15, or even 20 years of commitment. Our pets cannot choose for themselves. They depend on us to make wise, informed decisions on their behalf.

So, before you welcome a new four-legged friend into your family, pause and think. Research the breed. Consider your lifestyle. Be honest about your time, space, and energy. The right pet can bring immeasurable joy, laughter, and love. But only if we, as caretakers, begin with the right choice.

Because in the end, this isn’t just about finding a pet. It’s about honoring the trust of a life that will depend on you completely. Be thoughtful. Be wise. Be responsible.

And that is My Take.
N. Isaac Bott, DVM