First and foremost, never purchase your new pet on impulse. Bringing a sweet little fur ball home just because it was adorable is rarely the best way to find a new pet.

A better option is to discuss the matter of pets with your family first. Make a point to consider the following in your discussion: grooming, daily feeding, playtime, personal attention, veterinary care and house training (where applicable). It would also be a good idea to ask each member of the family why they want a pet. It's a good idea to make sure your children understand that a pet is another member of the family, not just another play thing, and that the pet's individual needs should be considered as much as other family members' needs.

Next, review your lifestyle. Let's say, for example, you have a downtown apartment and have a rigorous work schedule. In this case it may be best to consider a pet such as a bird, a cat or maybe even a fish. If your daily routine includes jogging or running, then a dog might be a good choice for you.

If you'd like to understand the needs of a potential pet, make a point of seeking out and talking to breeders and other pet owners. Find local pet shows and talk to the judges. Use Google to search for specific breeds to learn more about the pet you are thinking of purchasing. It goes without saying that you should consider the ages of your children when planning to add a new pet to your household. An often overlooked issue is to consider the life expectancy of the pet and how this will affect your children.

* Question: Should I get a pet from a shelter or a pet store?

This is really a matter of personal preference. My personal preference is that it is best to find your new pet at a local shelter. Animals at a shelter are well-cared for by the staff and have had plenty of interaction with people. The shelter's staff will tell you about the animals' temperament so that you can find the pet that is best for you. The staff can give you a good idea of which animal loves children and which dog enjoys long walks. Furthermore, animals from a shelter have already been treated with the necessary immunizations, and have been spayed and neutered.

If, instead, you decide to look for a pet from a pet store, be sure that you get the pet store owner to give you a full briefing of the animal's disposition, primarily for dogs, cats and other animals that will need to interconnect with humans.

* Question: How should I ascertain the kind of dog that is best for me?

Use the following as a guide for finding the perfect dog for you:

- Look for pet guides to learn about a particular dog breed's personality, background and temperament. Surf the internet for online guides that tell you about those kinds of dogs.

- Talk with a veterinarian to discuss details about the characteristics and disposition of the breed you are looking for. Ask questions to understand more about that breed.

- If you are planning to purchase a puppy at a pet store, make sure to ask for the animal's status -- such as its origin, behavioral problems, physical problems and the breed's anomalies. Otherwise, you can also get dogs or puppies from animal shelters or from a private breeder.

- Of course, one of the very best methods (though not very scientific) is to find out from your friends' and associates about their own experiences with various types of dogs they have owned in the past.