Picking your pet

Adopting a pet is a life-long commitment. Choose with care: A pet should not be disposable because you're tired of the work involved. Be sure you are ready for the commitment of the pet you've selected. Do your research and you -- and your pet -- will be happier.

__Large dog__ __Cost:__$650-$750 for annual exam, vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventive, flea and tick preventive and food; $150-$300 for spay/neuter __Pros:__ Traditional family pet; teaches children responsibility __Cons:__ Many behavior problems start because of lack of adequate exercise and attention; larger breeds need the most of these

__Medium dog__ __Cost:__$550-$650 for above and around $100-$250 for spay/neuter Pros: Requires less room than large dogs; typically less high-strung than small dogs __Cons:__ All breeds need activity and time

__Small dog__ __Cost:__$450-$500 for above and around $100-$200 for spay/neuter __Pros:__ Living space can be smaller __Cons:__ Some breeds are high-strung and not good with children

__Cat__ __Cost:__$200-$350 for exam, vaccines, flea and tick preventative and food; $50-$200 for spay/neuter +/- declaw __Pros:__ Typically does not require as much activity as a dogs __Cons:__ Allergies and the placement of the litter box can be issues

__Ferret__ __Cost:__$60 for annual exam and vaccines; around $75-150 for __spay/neuter; $150-$200 for descent Pros:__ Does not need to be constantly caged like other small mammals __Cons:__ Can think fingers are toys and bite them; not good for children younger than 6

__Corn Snake__ __Cost:__$200 or more to maintain its habitat with warming lights, have annual vet visits and eat two or three mice per month __Pros:__ Most easily domesticated and easily available breed of snake; many unique color variations; maxes out at 4 feet. __Cons:__ Need to maintain a 70-80 degree habitat and be fed killed mice.

Information provided by Dr. Shelly Daume of Deer Ridge Animal Hospital, www.veterinarypartner.com and Petco.