The old 'doggy in the window’ experience can be very persuasive. I was at the mall shopping for a few essentials with my sister, who recently lost her beloved cat. The obligatory window shopping took in designer shoes, to-die-for handbags, luscious cosmetics, fluffy white kittens…

Yep, there they were – just another designer item. Yet cats and dogs shouldn’t be an impulse buy that you just sit on the shelf and get out to show off on a special occasion.

We’re a nation of pet lovers and most of us do the right thing, but far too many Australians still don’t research their chosen pet properly, as national RSPCA statistics bear out. In 2006/2007 the RSPCA received 67,303 dogs and 32.5 per cent had to be put down. Cats fared just as badly with 58,480 received and 57 per cent having to be euthanased.

Before you get a pet, know exactly what you’re getting into. The local vet’s a great source of information to quiz on what care is needed in the first months and later on. Get prices for desexing, vaccinations and puppy or kitten classes. Phone pet insurance companies and find out what their premiums are, then research different breeds and their specific needs. Visit www.petnet.com.au

Don’t discount the RSPCA or pet shelters in your search for the perfect companion. The RSPCA’s devoted to the care and successful re-homing of all animals, from cats, dogs, birds, chickens and ducks to rabbits and guinea pigs as well as horses, sheep and goats.
Many people believe all shelter animals have behavioural problems – this is far from true.

The RSPCA assesses all potential pets’ behaviour before they can be re-homed. As a bonus, many also get basic obedience training and life skills. All dogs and cats sold at the RSPCA are desexed, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed and are reasonably priced.

Shelter staff are well trained and will talk you through what you need to know about pet ownership. At the RSPCA, there’s no hard sell. You’re encouraged to go and think about the commitment before deciding to adopt.

Look for animals available for adoption at the RSPCA’s www.adoptapet.com.au