Advice on buying a pet?

A pet is a lifetime commitment

Never buy a pet on impulse. To help you make the right choice think PETS:

P

E

T

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Place

How suitable is the place where you live?

Do you have a garden, or live near a local park? These are important considerations when thinking about getting a pet like a dog, which will need space to run around and play.

Exercise

How much exercise could you give your pet?

You may be looking forward to long walks with your new pet, in which case a dog might be suitable. If you’re not very active, a smaller pet may be a better choice.

Time

How much time could you spend with your pet?

Daily exercise, training, play time, visits to the vet, grooming and cleaning their home out all take time. Owners need to think about how much time they have to invest before deciding which pet to get.

Spend

Could you afford the lifetime expense of your preferred pet?

Owning a pet is a significant financial commitment. Food, bedding, vaccinations, and flea and worm treatments all need to be budgeted for. Owners also need to consider taking out pet insurance.

P

Place

How suitable is the place where you live?

Place

Do you have a garden, or live near a local park? These are important considerations when thinking about getting a pet like a dog, which will need space to run around and play.

E

Exercise

How much exercise could you give your pet?

Exercise

You may be looking forward to long walks with your new pet, in which case a dog might be suitable. If you’re not very active, a smaller pet may be a better choice.

T

Time

How much time could you spend with your pet?

Time

Daily exercise, training, play time, visits to the vet, grooming and cleaning their home out all take time. Owners need to think about how much time they have to invest before deciding which pet to get.

S

Spend

Could you afford the lifetime expense of your preferred pet?

Spend

Owning a pet is a significant financial commitment. Food, bedding, vaccinations, and flea and worm treatments all need to be budgeted for. Owners also need to consider taking out pet insurance.

Check Before You Buy

Try an animal charity first

There are thousands of healthy, loving animals of all ages throughout the UK who need a home.

See young animals with their mum

Are they old enough to leave her? Kittens and puppies aren't independent until they are eight weeks old.

Go and see the pet

Make sure you ask about the animals health and medical history. Beware of dodgy breeders.

Understand your pet's needs

Many animals need companionship, space and exercise. Know how much it will cost to keep your pet. 

Report adverts for illegal breeds and beware of illegal imports

Pets that have been smuggled in may have a disease that affects their health and yours.

Is it dangerous, wild or even endangered?

Many dangerous, wild or exotic species need a licence and are for specialists. Check it will make a suitable pet. 

Want to find the pet that's right for you

We're a nation of animal lovers, but the reality of owning a pet can be different from what we expect PDSA can help you choose the right pet for you - get started by answering some simple questions