Read the Passage.
Which Pet is Right for You?
When picking the perfect pet, it is important to keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of animal. According to a recent survey of pet owners, the three most popular pets are dogs, cats, and freshwater fish. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of pet.
Our Canine Friends
A veterinarian giving a golden retriever a checkup.
Picture 1
Dogs are the most popular pet. Dog owners report that dogs are wonderful companions. They are loyal and provide comfort to their owners. Dogs can also learn to perform tricks. Although dogs have many wonderful traits, there are disadvantages to dog ownership for some people. Dogs need exercise. This can be difficult if you live in a home without a yard. In addition, dogs need a lot of attention. If you don’t have a lot of free time, a dog is probably not right for you. Another disadvantage is that dogs can be expensive. Visits to the vet, a dog’s supplies, and grooming trips can break the bank. A pet survey had the following breakdown of average dog expenses:
Average Yearly Dog Expenses
Expense	Cost	
Vet visits	$212	
Food	$259	
Groomer	$73	
Toys	$48	
Total	$592	
Our Feline Friends
A white and gray cat playing with a toy.
Picture 2
Cats are the second most popular pet. Cat owners like cats because they can take care of themselves. Unlike dogs, they don’t need as much daily outside exercise. While most cats aren’t taught to do tricks, they can be taught to use a litter box. That way, owners don’t have to be bothered to take them outside to use the bathroom. Cats can also groom themselves. Dog owners often say that cats don’t show affection like dogs, but many cat owners disagree. Many cats like to be petted, and make a sweet purr when they are happy. Similar to dogs, the cost of owning a cat can add up quickly.
Average Yearly Cat Expenses
Expense	Cost	
Vet visits	$160	
Food	$228	
Groomer	$43	
Toys	$31	
Total	$462	
Our Aquatic Friends
Two fish, one gold and one black, swimming in their colorful aquarium.
Picture 3
Freshwater fish are the third most popular pet. Fish can be kept in the smallest of homes. They are also easy to take care of. Freshwater fish just need clean water and food. Fish are especially good pets for people who are busy. Dog and cat owners might say that fish are boring and that they don’t show love and affection. It may not appear that way, but fish can be very entertaining. Fish owners enjoy watching fish swim around their tanks. Fish are also inexpensive pets.
Dogs, cats, and fish are all excellent choices for pets. Each offers unique experiences to pet owners. Just keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages of each type of animal when you choose your pet.
Practice Question
The main idea of this passage is that there are advantages and disadvantages to owning certain pets.
For each detail from the passage, choose whether it's an example of an advantage, a disadvantage, or neither.
Advantage
Disadvantage
Neither
"Fish can be kept in the smallest of homes."
"Dogs, cats, and fish are all excellent choices for pets."
"Cat owners like cats because they can take care of themselves."
“If you don’t have a lot of free time, a dog is probably not right for you.”
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