For keeps: A sampling of pet animals on the market
JAKARTA(JP): Pets are more than just a cute face to come home to at the end of the day.
They may actually do you good.
Research has proven pets are beneficial to people by relieving stress and alleviating loneliness. Clinical studies have shown that a person's heart rate slows when they pet and show tenderness toward an animal.
But finding the right pet takes careful consideration of the environment you can provide for it. There are also so-called "exotic" pets which animal experts say are better left in their natural environment.
Veterinarians Dr. Siti Zaenab, Dr. Gunadi Setiadarma and Dr. Ina Purborini Messakh were in agreement that wild animals, such as wild cats, monkeys, phalangers, slow lorises and mongooses, were not appropriate as pets.
For animals which can be kept as pets, such as cats and dogs, the vets said they must be bought from a reputable breeder or shop.
"I don't recommend people buying them from vendors along the street as they don't take good care of them," Ina said. "I do recommend you buy them directly from a breeder, such as in the classifieds, or from a pet shop."
But she has another word of warning even if potential buyers have checked out the seller.
"No matter where you buy them from, make sure to ask for initial vaccinations, so we can be sure that there are antibodies."
Here are the vets' tips on choosing a pet, the different qualities of the animals, their needs -- and the drawbacks of keeping "exotic" species in the home.
Dogs, puppies: Choose breeds known to have a good character, Siti said. Dobermans, rottweilers and pit bulls are good guard dogs. But some breeds may be better for singles or couples rather than in family environments. For instance, the popular chow chow is usually a one-person dog and seldom listens to others, she added.
Rodents (including hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils and mice): Easy care. Be sure to maintain a hygienic environment by cleaning the cage daily and supplying a fresh supply of water and food to keep the animals in optimum health.
Cats, kittens: Independent and low maintenance. Short-haired cats require less care than long-haired felines. Litter boxes must be cleaned daily.
Rabbits: They do not require much space and are easy to feed, eating all kinds of vegetables and fruits. Special food pellets are available at pet shops. However, be sure to buy them from a reputable source and at not too young an age, because they may have been weaned too young.
Fish: A relaxing pet to have. A good environment is necessary. Water needs to be kept at the right temperature. However, problems can occur when the water is changed so consult an expert, especially when handling koi.
Wild jungle cats (kucing hutan): High mortality rate in captivity, with only 70 percent to 80 percent surviving. They cannot be tamed, and are not recommended as pets.
Iguanas: Carriers of the E. coli, salmonella and staphylococcus bacteria. Symptoms in humans appear as diarrhea. Iguanas need humidity, the right temperature and a simulated natural environment with trees and water present.
Snakes: Snakes, as well as all reptiles, can carry E. coli, staphylococcus and salmonella. Usually the varieties that are more colorful are more poisonous. It's important to consider all information about snake types before choosing one as a pet. Some varieties eat insects or plants, while others eat live creatures, so consider their needs..
Phalangers (kuskus): A nocturnal marsupial which does not like bright lights and is easily stressed by noise. Its diet needs protein, such as live grubs and grasshoppers. It cannot survive on fruit alone. Not recommended as a pet.
Monkeys: Primates have genes that are close to humans, so some diseases, such as tuberculosis, are transferable. They are omnivores, and thus need a varied diet, and must have vaccinations against tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis and rabies.
But they have a complex nature and play favorites when it comes to people. They are highly sensitive and remember mistreatment for their whole life. Not recommended as a pet.
Mongoose: They can kill cats and chickens, and are difficult to tame. Not recommended as a pet.
Tarantulas: Some are not dangerously poisonous, but it is better to do some research on the right type to buy first. Tarantulas require the right temperature and can be kept in a covered aquarium. Make sure the cover is in place at all times and that it allows adequate ventilation. (Maria Kegel)