The act of getting a pet is certainly exciting and rewarding for everyone involved, but you should make several health-related decisions first before making such a purchase.

"First of all...prospective pet owners need to understand that they are actually making a lifetime commitment, as far as the pet is concerned, and they certainly do not want to do that without consulting their family first," says Dr. Peggy Rucker, President of the American Animal Hospital Association.

The inclusion of a new pet in any household can prompt radical lifestyle changes for many people, and prospective pet owners should take that into consideration. "If you make such a decision, you have to ensure that the people who will be interacting with the pet aren't in any way being compromised," Rucker tells AHN.COM.

Another decision required of prospective pet owners is the breed that they are purchasing. Because certain animals have been bred in a particular way for hundreds of years, they may not adapt to a particular environment very well. "Certain breeds of dogs need more activity to keep them sane, such as terriers," explains Rucker. "Certain (other) breeds are more amenable to family living."

In addition, there are several decisions that the new owner must make before accepting a puppy or kitten into their home. First, it's important to ensure that your pet is properly inoculated against various diseases. Innoculations should begin from the time the pet is five to six weeks old, and continue until they are four to five months old, Rucker advises. The innoculations should be administered every three to four weeks during this time.

Innoculations are only one aspect of a pet's health, Rucker adds. Beyond that, new pet owners should ensure that their kitten or puppy undergoes a full veterinary examination. Non-traditional pets, such as iguanas, may require special health-related needs, as well. Another health-related requirment of new owners is ensuring that their pet is eating the right food, says Rucker. "Certain animals go through several age-related changes, and owners must ensure they are recieving the proper nutrition as relates to their age."

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