Family-friendly pets
Veterinarian Dr. Debbye Turner Bell offers these recommendations for pets that are suitable for families.
One of Bell's picks is rabbits.
"Rabbits can be loving, fun pets," she says. "They will bond with the family, play, and even cuddle. Because of the delicate nature of their bone structure, rabbits are not the best pet for families with small, heavy-handed children. And you must be committed to proper nutrition and housing for the bunny."
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Pocket Pets: Guinea pigs
Bell says, "Guinea pigs are good for the family that has limited space. Guinea pigs are docile, but can be easily stressed, so the children should be older and mature enough to be gentle and respectful. Guinea pigs can be slobs, so be ready for lots of clean-up."
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Cats
Bell says, "Cats are for the family that wants a pet to love and play with, but doesn't want the walks and behavior training that dogs require."
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Cats
"Cats are clean,independent, usually easy to litter train, and when raised properly,
extremely affectionate," Bell says. "Cats are a great option when your living space is limited."
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Fish: Beta Fish
Beta Fish, also known as Japanese or Siamese fighting fish, are great starter pets, Bell says.
She explains, "Inexpensive to buy and easy to maintain, these pretty, colorful fish make ideal first pets for kids of all ages. They require little space, and no filter or heater."
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Fish: Tropical Saltwater Fish
A swordtail tropical fish.
Bell notes, "Saltwater fish tend to have the bright, fluorescent-like colors everyone enjoys. However, tropical saltwater fish are for the more advanced pet owner. The habitats must be kept to precise standards in terms of water temperature, salinity, cleanliness -- the water quality needs to be immaculate, so the cost of care and upkeep can be pricey. But few pets are more beautifully exquisite."
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Dogs: Bichon Frise
Bell recommends the Bichon Frise breed.
She says, "A great small breed, these dogs provide the style and beauty of a toy poodle without the nervous shaking and excessive
barking. They do require regular professional grooming, so figure that into your pet care budget."
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Dogs: Golden Retreiver
"Golden retrievers (are) great for the active, outdoors-loving family. These dogs are loyal, loving, and full of energy," Bell says. "They can handle the rough 'n tumble of small kids and will patiently grant 'pony rides.'"
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Dogs: Mixed Breed
"Not enough accolades are given to the good 'ole mutt," Bell says. "These dogs tend to be healthier, smarter, and live longer than many
purebreds. Plus, they tend to show up in shelters and desperately need a family to give them a forever home."
Love this little mixed breed puppy? You can take him home from the Save a Mutt Shelter & Rescue. This pitbull/labradoodle mix is 8 weeks old. For more information, visit Save a Mutt Shelter & Rescue and their Facebook page.
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Dogs: Greyhound
Bell says, "Greyhounds are known as 'velcro dogs.' These gentle souls love their humans.
They will follow you from room-to-room, try to nap in your lap, and happily watch TV with you. Contrary to their size, they do not require great amounts of strenuous exercise -- just a daily walk outside."
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Dogs: Labrador Retreiver
Bell says, "Labrador retrievers are hunting dogs by nature, so are best-suited for the high-energy family. Labs need rigorous exercise and fresh air, so they are great for families that do a lot of outdoor activities, especially water sports."
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Dogs: Pug
"Pugs (are) a delightful breed with a lively personality," Bell says. "These are great
dogs for the single person household. They are good watchdogs, loyal, and protective."
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