Pet ownership is a great way for you to improve your physical and mental well-being. Taking care of pets provides opportunities for you to stay active and vibrant. Some retirement communities also encourage their residents to have pets. When choosing a pet, there are many types of animals and breeds to pick from. Some people prefer pets that can match their active lifestyle, whereas others may prefer pets that are less energetic. From furry friends to aquatic pets, there is something for everyone. The size of your pet is also something to consider. Let’s take a look at three reasons why small pets for seniors are more ideal than bigger ones.
Everything is Smaller
The bigger the pet, the bigger their appetite, physical strength, and living area. If you have a small pet, you would not need to spend so much time and money on their food as they consume less. This is especially helpful if you need an animal companion but are on a tight budget. You will also have less to clean up because their sheddings and droppings will be less a bigger pet’s. Therefore, smaller pets are usually popular amongst people with limited mobility, living space, and energy levels.
Easier to Handle
Small pets are also less physically demanding to care for than bigger pets. A smaller dog, for example, would be easier to carry or control when you bring them outside. Cats are pretty low maintenance and don’t need to go for walks. As most cats are small in size, you can hold and carry them around without much difficulty. Rabbits are wonderful pets to have indoors because they love to cuddle and snuggle on your laps. If you prefer aquatic animals, fish are rather easy to care for. All you need is a suitably sized aquarium with a filter or air pump, the right water temperature and pH level, and of course food. If you have any mobility issues, make sure your aquariums are not larger than 10 gallons to make it easier for cleaning and changing of water. A smaller-sized aquarium would be much easier to manage on a daily basis.
Suitable for Smaller Homes
It goes without saying that a smaller pet does not need as much space to live in as a larger one. Remember that your pet shares their living space with you. They are therefore suitable for smaller homes where space is limited or if you do not have a yard. If your pet mostly lives in a cage, such as a hamster, or an aquarium, in the case of fish, then that is all the space you need to cater for them. Small birds such as parakeets are suitable for small spaces, although they do best in pairs. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), smaller pets are usually more likely to be accepted by most HOAs.
Whatever your choice of pet, do remember that small pets still come with big commitments. You will be invested physically and emotionally to ensure that all their needs are met. However, the benefits of having pets are truly endless. They may be small in size, but their love, devotion, and companionship are boundless.
