At first, you may think a bird or fish is the best option for a pet that’s easy to care for. But one pet store owner in Louisville has the scoop on what’s really best for low-maintenance companionship.
Lisa Poe, owner of Poe’s Pet Depot, says birds can be more of a hassle than one may assume. “They’re nice pets, but they are high maintenance,” she says. “You have to get them out. You have to make sure you clean their bird cage every day. If not, they can get an infection because they poop a lot.”
A fish is a better option. For instance, purchasing a small beta fish or a tank with small tropical fish. But it’s not still not the best option. While fish are easy to care for, they don’t interact with owners.
Lisa says a small dog or cat is actually a better pet for older adults because they can love you in a way a bird or fish can’t. “A lot of people are lonely,” she says. “I see it a lot with my customers. Their kids and grandkids don’t come around to visit.”
Additionally, Lisa suggests adopting. Cats and dogs in these situations are low maintenance, needing only the basic essentials — cats even more so because they can self groom.
If you’re concerned about having to take your dog out to potty, there is a solution for the both of you. At Poe’s Pet Depot, you can purchase a wee-wee patch. This patch of grass serves as an indoor potty with pads that are easy to change out.
“It helps if they live in a condo or senior complex. It used to be they couldn’t get down to walk their dog. Well, now they have the option to have a patch of grass in their house, and they can just change the pad,” Lisa says.
By Quinn Fitzgerald
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