Dr. Jungle's Animal Speak

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The Best Pets for Apartment Dwellers Posted: 19 Jul 2011 09:45 PM PDT Just because you live in an apartment doesn't mean that you are limited in the pets you can own. If you want a cat or dog, it will help to know how to choose one who will love your third floor walk up or that first floor garden unit. Check your rental agreement The first place to go is to the rental office. If you are moving to another apartment, checking on their pet policy might want to be your first order of business. For your current apartment, reread your lease. Now that you want a pet, it will be imperative to know if it is even possible where you live. Some agreements have stipulations even when you are allowed pets so read the fine print. There could be weight limit or size limit. Owning fish may be limited to smaller tanks and not the larger ones you see in doctor's offices or restaurants. Don't forget the cost as well. To own a pet can add another one hundred dollars or more to your monthly rent. Increased cost is most likely due to the possibility of pet stains on rugs and damage to the apartment dwelling itself. Top Apartment Pets 1. Fish – These are some of the most unobtrusive pets. They amuse themselves by swimming all day and only need to eat at intervals. The size of your fish or the aquarium might be in question but generally fish are allowed as long as the tanks are well maintained. 2. Reptiles and amphibians – Snakes are not the only reptiles. Many apartments will allow them as long as they are non-poisonous and kept in a tank. But, there are also small lizards like newts and salamanders. Don't forget your friendly neighborhood turtle. 3. Birds – They can sing but don't let them squawk. Try to stay away from macaws, parakeets in large numbers, cockatoos and other vocal birds. Apartment walls are not thick enough to stop a loud bird from keeping the neighbors up all night. 4. Small furry animals – This would include hamsters, guinea pigs, mice and rabbits. The major hurdle here is the smell. These pets need constant cleaning of their cages. If there is an issue with cleanliness, your landlord may ask them to go. 5. Cats – This furry creature is usually not a problem in most apartments. They keep to themselves and don't make a lot of noise. 6. Dogs – Large dogs are not a good match for apartments because of the limited space during the day. Even small dogs need to be walked but they often fare better during the day when left alone. Just because you live in an apartment doesn't mean that you can't have a companion of the animal variety. Check with your landlord and then choose a pet to suit your needs.

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