GET READY, SET, PET

Created By: Maia and Sophia

THINK ABOUT THISDog, Fish, Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Cat, Bird, Hamster

Which of these pets do you think is the most common in the United States? Why?What about the least?

NUMBER OF PETS IN THE US (IN 2007)

05,000,000

10,000,00015,000,00020,000,00025,000,00030,000,00035,000,00040,000,00045,000,000

DogsCatsFishBirdsRabbitsHamstersGuinea Pig

THINK ABOUT THISWhich pets do you think are considered exotic animals? Why?

EXOTIC ANIMALSThese pets are considered exotic:BirdsGuinea PigsHamstersGerbilsRatsMiceChinchillas

FerretsRabbitsIguanasFrogsSnakesTurtlesHermit CrabsTarantulas

BELIEVE IT OR NOT Owning a pet is a big responsibility and commitment. Work must be done before you can welcome a pet into your home. We have created a process called the FRIEND method that will guide you in determining if you are suited for a pet, choosing the best match, and preparing you, your family, and your home.

THE FRIEND METHODFigure out your family’s willingness to commit to a pet

Research several animals’ pet care and responsibilities

Identify which pet is your best match

Evaluate and make necessary modifications to your home

Needs – supplies, food, and toys

Distribute care tasks appropriately between family members

FIGURE OUTOwning a pet is a family decision. You will be able to find a pet that matches your lifestyle if you are willing to: Spend time being with and caring for your petSpend money on your pet

RESEARCHWhen researching, you should:Use reliable resourcesResearch 2 pets minimumWrite down information such as cost, training, space required, etc.

IDENTIFYKeep these things in mind when choosing your pet:BudgetTimeAllergiesSpaceOther Pets

EXOTIC ANIMALSExotic animals come with additional responsibilities such as:Going to a vet specialized in exotic veterinary careBeing careful and aware of the supplies you are buyingPay special attention to the ingredients in food and treats.

EVALUATESome pets may require you to make simple modifications to your home such as:Covering cords for a rabbitMoving shoes and stuffed animals out of reach for a puppyThese precautions are for their safety and your convenience.

NEEDSAll pets need these supplies:FoodToys and TreatsAn area to sleep, an area use the bathroom, and enough space to exerciseSome pets may require additional care products. Make sure you have the supplies you need before you adopt your pet.

INGREDIENT ALERT You should always:Be aware of the foods harmful to your petResist sharing processed foods with your petIf you are buying food labeled for a number of pets, such as small animals, you should:Read the ingredient label even if the sub-titles and pictures suggest that the food or treat is healthy

DISTRIBUTE Keep these things in mind when distributing pet care tasks:AgeAmount of SkillAvailable TimeFor example, do not assign pooper-scooper duty to your two year-old sister.

QUESTIONS?

TIME TO TEST YOUR SMARTS

QUESTION #1How many pets should I research?

Writing it down is annoying and takes forever. I can just

remember it, right?

At least 2. No! Always write it down.

QUESTION #2I’m busy. Can’t I pay someone to

train my pet?

Yes, but pets require a time commitment. Maybe a fish or hamster would be the best

choice for you.

QUESTION #3Look at his puppy-face! He is so adorable. Can’t I give him just

one chip?

You shouldn’t, it isn’t healthy.

QUESTION #4The label says for all small

animals. Can’t I trust it?

Sadly, no. You should read the ingredient label just to make

sure.

QUESTION #5OMG! Buttercup is sooo cute!

Can’t we adopt her today? Pretty please?

Sorry, no. You need to prepare your family and home first.

BONUS QUESTIONName an exotic pet.

Bird, Guinea Pig, Hamster, Gerbil, Rat, Mouse, Chinchilla, Ferret, Rabbit, Iguana, Frog, Snake,

Turtle, Hermit Crab, or Tarantula

WEBSITEGo to ReadySetPet.weebly.com for:

Access to this PowerPointLinks to additional resources