Pets are starting to be even more than just our furry friends. Whether you are a student trying to figure out how to convince your parents to get a pet or you’re in charge of the pet now that you’ve convinced your parents to get one, this is the article for you.

The idea of adding a new member to your family can be a scary one, but will ultimately better your life. You just need to know all there is to know beforehand.

Some benefits to owning a pet are:

1. A healthier heart. Dog owners walk more and keep a healthier lifestyle.
2. Less stress. Owning an animal lowers your blood pressure as well as keeps you calm and relaxed.
3. Social support. For the socially anxious or people on the autistic spectrum, having a pet around can help them feel safe in certain environments.

If you or someone in your household has an allergy or fear of the typical pets like cats or dogs, there are some other options. If you enjoy a furry companion, there are rabbits, ferrets, or hamsters, but keep in mind there are plenty of coyotes in Colorado looking for a meal.

A good test to whether or not you can handle the responsibility of a pet is to buy a goldfish. I, myself, have owned both a tortoise and a frog. Not the softest or most affectionate, but certainly good company.

There are several different shelters around the Colorado Springs area and also many opportunities to adopt with programs like the Petco Adoption Saturdays that happen every weekend in University Village. While looking for the right pet for you and your family, it is important to make sure that looks aren’t everything. More often than not, darker-furred cats and dogs get overlooked for lighter ones. The same thing goes for animals with physical defects.

Cesar Millan, also known as the dog whisperer, says, “Your goal as a successful dog owner is to find a dog with a lower energy, or the same energy level, that you and your family [including any current dogs or pets] might possess. Compatible energy is more important than breed.”

Owning a pet is a great idea for many people and families, but there are also several aspects that people forget to think about before they welcome their new family member into their homes. With the holidays right around the corner, it is important to remember and realize that animals’ lives have more purpose than a Christmas gift that you give back after you’re bored of it. Take care of your pets.