Step 1: Learn about different pets
Learn about different animals; if you are considering an exotic or barnyard pet, check local ordinances to see what’s allowed in your community.
第一步：了解不同的宠物
了解不同的宠物；如果你想养些奇异的宠物或是那些生活在院子中的宠物。要核查当地的条例来了解你所在的社区是否允许养那种宠物。

Tip:Your local animal shelter is a great resource for information on pets and local laws.
小贴士：当地的动物收容所是查找宠物信息和当地条例的号。

Step 2: Consider your living quarters
Consider how much space you have. If you have a small place, consider a small pet; if you can provide room to roam, try a cat, dog, rabbit, or bird; if you have lots of outdoor space, you could handle a large dog or a horse.
第二步：考虑你的住所面积
考虑你拥有的住所面积。如果空间较小，就养体型小的宠物；如果能有让宠物溜达的空间，可养猫，狗，兔子或是鸟；如果你有很多室外空间，可以养条大狗或马。

Step 3: Consider your family situation
Consider your family situation, including how many people and pets are already at home. If you have kids, stick with domesticated pets like cats, dogs, fish, or parakeets. If you already have other pets, think about whether they would get along with a new animal.
第三步：考虑家庭环境
考虑家庭环境，保护家里有几口人和已养的宠物。如果你有小孩，要养些温顺，驯化过的宠物，比如猫，狗，鱼或是鹦鹉。如果你已经养了其他的宠物，靠考虑新的宠物能否和它们和睦相处。

Step 4: Consider how much time and energy you have
Consider how much time and energy you have to devote to your pet. The larger the pet, the more of your time and attention it needs to stay clean, healthy, and happy.
第四步：考虑你的时间和精力
考虑你能用于宠物的时间和精力。养的宠物越大，越需要更多的时间和精力来保持它们干净，健康和幸福。

Step 5: Consider your budget
Consider your budget. You’ll need to spend money on food, veterinary care, grooming, and toys. Horses require year-round stabling; exotic animals often need specialized habitats, food, and health care.
第五步：考虑预算
考虑预算。你需要花钱买食物，看兽医，训练宠物，给宠物买玩具。马全年都要有马厩；奇异的宠物经常需要特殊的住所，食物和健康护理。

Step 6: Take your time deciding
Take time making your decision. Discovering which animal best suits your lifestyle will ensure a lifetime of companionship for you and your new friend.
第六步：三思而后行
要花些时间来做决定。发现那种宠物最适合你的生活方式，那将确保宠物能终生陪伴你。