Dogs take more time and effort, but tend to give more affection.

Cats are easier, but go with an older cat or cats so you can get an idea of if the cat is affectionate or standoffish.

If you do this, take the child to an adoption day and make sure the child and pet seem to like each other. This sounds stupid, but animals warm up to some people more than others.

One thing to think about--when/if DC goes to college, who will take care of the pet? Are you willing to take on that animal's care?

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Dogs are a species that is an optimal companion for humans. First, the wolves tat evolved into dogs were smart enough to get the role: people give them food in exchange for protection. Different breeds were bred for different roles, though, and may not be right for every situation.

A Border Collie is an very smart dog, but is not appropriate for a small apartment in the city.

It depends on the actual dog. My cousin has a collie, he got in college. Collie has lived in group homes and small apartments. When cousin lived at home after college, he spent all day laying on cousins bed looking out window, waiting for cousin to come home from work. He then took one short walk with cousin and went back to laying on bed. Despite his breed, he's not a high energy dog.

I was talking about a Border Collie, not a Collie. Different breed. Border Collies are much smarter than Collies; The Border Collie will figure out how to do what it wants. Don't leave your credit card around, or the dog will order from Omaha Steaks.

Anonymous wrote:Dogs are a species that is an optimal companion for humans. First, the wolves tat evolved into dogs were smart enough to get the role: people give them food in exchange for protection. Different breeds were bred for different roles, though, and may not be right for every situation.

A Border Collie is an very smart dog, but is not appropriate for a small apartment in the city.

It depends on the actual dog. My cousin has a collie, he got in college. Collie has lived in group homes and small apartments. When cousin lived at home after college, he spent all day laying on cousins bed looking out window, waiting for cousin to come home from work. He then took one short walk with cousin and went back to laying on bed. Despite his breed, he's not a high energy dog.

My son is an only child, and we finally got him a dog a year ago. He had begged for one for years, and finally we agreed after he did research on owning a dog and saved up part of the adoption fee. The dog has turned our lives upside down (we got a puppy), but he's been a wonderful addition to our family. He and DS are inseparable, and my husband and I have also fallen in love with the dog. As high-maintenance as the dog is, I feel certain that my son will always have great memories of having his special friend.

I suggest a rabbit. Preferably two.

I love my rescue dog and so do my kids - great idea

Dogs are a species that is an optimal companion for humans. First, the wolves tat evolved into dogs were smart enough to get the role: people give them food in exchange for protection. Different breeds were bred for different roles, though, and may not be right for every situation.

A Border Collie is an very smart dog, but is not appropriate for a small apartment in the city.

I agree on the bird. Too smart, and they live too long. They can be great pets, but this is not a pet for beginners, and I doubt you are sure you will still want it 20 years from now. Maybe you would but maybe you won't. And boy are they messy.

I agree on the bird. Too smart, and they live too long. They can be great pets, but this is not a pet for beginners, and I doubt you are sure you will still want it 20 years from now. Maybe you would but maybe you won't. And boy are they messy.

I have a bird. Please do not get a bird. Ever. I wouldn't wish a bird on my worst enemy and I provide a beautiful, loving, accommodating home for my bird. Really not a good thing to get as a pet.