What pet would you suggest...?

Question

My family of four, including me, my husband, and our two boys (14 and 6) are moving into a three bedroom townhouse. My little one is moderately Autistic, my 14 year old has Asberger's Syndrome (a very high functioning Autism), and I myself am disabled (Stage Four breast cancer survivor, with unrelated mild neurological impairments, including visual impairment and mild motor issues.) Because of our disabilities, we are allowed to have a companion/service animal. I haven't had pets in years, but when I was growing up, I always had one or two cats and a dog. The problem is, I love both cats and dogs and can't decide which would be a better choice for this situation. 

I do know I want a spayed female, and either a large front-declawed lapcat (that can run away from my little one if need be) or a small to medium dog that can physically handle being loved on, but not yippie so as not to be annoying. 

I want to rescue an animal from a shelter if possible, so I'll probably get a mix breed of sorts, but I don't really know what breeds to even start with. 

Obviously, I'm home all the time and will be able to work with the animal as much as needed, and will physically be able to go for short daily walks if I get a dog. During good weather, we have a play area she can run around in, too, but not a fenced in area that is available ALL the time, like in a backyard. 

Thank you so much for your time and thoughts. My children and I much appreciate it!!

Blessings

BottledGenie · Accepted Answer

Visit your local animal shelter or humane society and LET THE PET PICK YOU.  These days shelters are overrun with donation animals because people are losing their homes and cannot care for them.  They are BEGGING for homes.  You'll know what to do when you see them.  They may even let you test the animal with your kids.  You may need permission from your landlord to adopt.  In some areas the humane society helps fund the spaying/neutering. Or you may be lucky enough to adopt a pet already fixed.  One of my friends just adoped a pure bred Afghan hound for $45.00.  One of my other friends got a 10-year old pure bred Arabian horse for free.  Here where I live the humane society just took in 100 starving cows that had not been fed in 18 months.  Some of them died in the trailer on the way to the shelter.  Like I said... unwanted animals are coming out of the woodwork.  It's a marvelous thing you're doing opening your home and your heart.  Let that heart guide you the rest of the way and find a furry friend for life.

Bright Blessing to you as well From Epona the Goddess of Animals!

Cat · Answer

I'd say a dog-medium sized. Dogs are able to handle a little rough love and love to just be around people. Rescuing at a shelter is good because it will give a dog a new start at life. Mixes are fine- we've rescued 2 from shelters before and had no problem. Just ask about what breeds its mixed with and its behavior...etc. Since you are home all the time, I know your dog will receive a lot of love and attention. Good luck.

Matt · Answer

Boston Terrier

They are very quiet and love to have their tummy rubbed. They are gentle with kids and visitors. They never ever bark unless scared or alerted. They are a little bigger than a pug around 25-35 pounds on average. They are super easy to train and are really little aristocrats in their mannerisms. 

As for a cat...anything will do just get it as a kitten for early socialization. Cats however can be fickle and can scratch children who play too rough.

Anonymous · Answer

Are your kids gentle with animals?  If not, I recommend a bigger dog, like a mastiff or rottweiler.  Mastiffs are great with younger kids because of their high pain tolerance, docility and gentleness.  If your kids won't hurt the dog by accident, I recommend a beagle.  They are good with kids and are about 15 to 20 pounds.  They're very friendly and loving.

? · Answer

haha. since you havent gotten a name yet....you could call him Eventually. ...I know of someone with a horse with that name. Also, what type of dog is he? if hes s mutt, what does he look like-husty like a pitbull, or a small breed?

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What pet would you suggest...?

5 Answers