For all family members, (including you!) to be able to live in peace you need to consider how your other pets will react to you introducing a new pet. A good place to start is to Google, which breed is right for me.
Once you've bought your new pet, you will have to start with an initial meeting. This is a tough one as you never know how both parties will react.
Make sure that you are present at the time of meeting and watch both animals' behaviour. Do not look away, even for a second. Let the animals explore each other but if you notice any signs or aggression separate them immediately.
You should try having lots of short meetings at the start to try to get them used to each other. It should get easier with time.
Try placing food down on either sides of the room so that they will associate food (which is a good thing) with the other pet being around.
Hopefully by this stage your pets are relaxed and able to be left alone together but if not speak to your veterinarian or an animal behaviourist about different ways of coping with this situation.
By Lauren - Vet Nurse
