Which pet is your best friend?

Now you have a place of your own, you’re daydreaming of adopting a pet, but think this through before you hop into the nearest animal shelter.

1. What’s your ideal pet?
Cat
Dog
Bird
Reptile
Fish
Rodent
Other

2. Size
Small ­— It stays in a cage or tank.
Medium — It fits in your lap or your purse.
Large — It defends you from intruders.

3. Does your landlord allow pets?
Yes, for an extra fee.
No.
They won’t find out ...

4. Do you live
Alone?
With roommates?
With your significant other?
With extreme allergies?

5. You’re bound to leave your residence for a while. Where will your new friend stay?
With you, wherever you go.
With one a roommate. They don’t go anywhere.
Your family is close by.
You hadn’t really thought about that.

6. Check if you can afford each of the following annual costs, from  the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:
Small dog
Food $55
Recurring medical $210
Toys/treats $40
Cat
Food $115
Recurring medical $160
Toys/treats $25
Litter $165 (the box alone is $25)

7. Pets are like children — they need love, exercise, attention and a little help with personal hygiene. How many hours a week are you
In class?
At work?
At the library?
Out with friends?