Many pets are purchased simply on impulse and emotion. The problem later realized is the cost associated with owning the pet. Be sure to research the costs associated with owning a pet that can include vaccinations, fees, licenses, and medical costs. Also consider the temperament, energy level, maintenance requirements, attention needed, and medical history for specific breeds. Inquire if the initial price includes the shots and fees/licenses associated with owning an animal. Ensure you can afford the cost of caring and owning your pet that can amount to hundreds of dollars upon purchase and hundreds more each year for veterinary care and grooming. Don't purchase the pet only to discover that soon afterwards you have to give it away because the animal is more than you can afford.
Consider purchasing a pet from an animal shelter. The low price for the animal from the shelters may include the necessary shots and possibly the animal will be spayed or neutered. You can find not only older animals at the shelter, but new ones as well.
Instead of purchasing an animal from a pet store, consider purchasing one from a private individual or a breeder. The cost is lower because the individuals have fewer overhead costs than stores and the animal may have been cared for better and may be in better health than pets purchased at a pet store. The breeders sell the animals to pet stores, which in turn markup the price. A breeder can be found in animal magazines and/or animal shows. Consider attending a show to learn more about the different types of breeds you are interested.
Ensure whomever you purchase your pet guarantees the health of the animal. You don’t want to purchase an animal without a guarantee only to discover shortly afterwards that the animal has substantial medical problems. Agree upon the purchase of an animal contingent upon the evaluation from a veterinarian.
Be sure to realize many apartments or homes for rent may require an additional pet deposit above and beyond the normal security deposit or they may not allow pets at all. You do not want to purchase a pet only to discover afterwards you cannot keep that pet in your home requiring you to give it away to someone else.