Care for dogs and cats can be costly. Besides food, you'll have to pay for regular vet visits, vaccinations, and grooming. As a responsible pet owner, you should plan to spay or neuter your dog or cat. Reptiles and fish can be expensive, but this depends on breeds and living requirements. The care of rabbits, gerbils, and most birds is relatively inexpensive.
Many people suffer from allergic reactions to dander from animal fur.
Bringing a new pet into the home with someone who is allergic is cruel to the animal and to the sufferer. Not only is the animal most likely to be given up when the reactions become unbearable, but the sufferer will be unable to provide the love and affection the animal needs. Some breeds of dog are very hypoallergenic and may cause little or no negative reaction. Birds, fish, and reptiles are also very good options. Many of the small caged animals, however, will cause the same allergic reactions in people as cats and dogs.