Sometimes the cuteness and fantasies of having a pet get in the way of making a logical decision concerning if you should get one. I have seen so many people, specifically college students, get animals but then decide to give them away. Normally it's due to lack of space and time, sometimes it's because the sparkle wore off. Either way, getting a pet means you will be responsible for a living, breathing being, and that means you are responsible for their life and well being. Here are 10 basic questions to seriously consider before you go out and get a pet.

1. Do you have adequate space for this pet?

I live in an apartment with a 5-pound dog and it works out lovely. The downside is I have to use a pee pad for her because I don't have any yard. Since she's so small, it isn't so bad, but if she was just a little bit bigger, I would have a really rough time. Don't get a pet unless you have more than enough space because it's unhealthy to keep animals locked up or confined all the time.

2. Do you have enough time to care for, train, and play with the pet?

Caring for the pet is one part of the equation, but you should have enough time in the day to spend with your pet. There are exceptions, like fish, but most pets need that bonding time and exercise. College students tend to overestimate themselves as far as balancing time. You have to factor in classes, homework, studying, and social life and that's just the basics. A good idea would be to document your free time over a period of a few weeks and see if you realistically have the time for a pet.

3. Are you willing to commit years to this pet?

Where do you see yourself in a year? Five years? Ten years? Sometimes life plans can throw a wrench in pet parenthood, and you need to look ahead. Will you be able to move with this pet? Does this pet need accommodations that you may not have access to in the future?

4. Will you want the pet for as long as it's average lifespan?

Going along with number 3, some pets are a long-term commitment and some are relatively short-term. For example, a gerbil is a commitment of a few years (which is still a long time), but a tortoise is most likely a lifetime commitment. Will you still love that cute puppy when it's 14 years old and elderly?

5. Can you afford to properly care for the pet?

You will need money for food, a cage (or whatever it will live in), medicine, vet appointments, cleaning supplies, treats, toys, fees, emergencies or accidents, etc. It starts to add up quickly, especially within the first year of having a pet. If you can't see yourself making personal sacrifices in order to properly care for your pet, then you aren't ready to get one.

6. Have you researched for a long period of time about this pet?

Be sure to do as much research as you can on the pet you think you want. There are all kinds of incorrect articles concerning the care for animals, so you need to be thorough to ensure you're getting the best information. Research everything you can and write down or print important information. It's best to make decisions when all of your facts are in front of you.

7. Have you given yourself enough time to consider this responsibility?

Are you really ready to take on caring for another creature? Give yourself a few months to be sure you're ready for an animal. You will be better prepared and comfortable.

8. Do you have anyone who would care for your pet if you went away for some time?

You can't just leave your pet unsupervised and unfed when you go away. Make sure you have a plan if you need a pet sitter. Some local shelters will board pets, you can hire pet sitters, or you can have a friend care for them. Just be sure you know what you can do.

9. Are you willing to deal with the gross and difficult aspects of pet parenthood?

Gross sickness, messy tendencies, nasty smells, difficult training, serious illness, etc. A lot of owning a pet is hard work. You really have to step up to make sure they are happy and healthy. It can be really hard and stressful. Understand that with any responsibility, there will be difficult times.

10. Do you have any friends with this pet you could talk to?

You could try to get information through friends, but you can also use the internet. You can find forums and Facebook pages for different pets, so you have options. It's better to have people you can directly ask questions to that wont be a medical veterinary opinion or description.

Pets are difficult to take care of and can cause a lot of stress, but if you prepare properly, it can be rewarding. I love my animals. Raising a puppy has taught me so much about routine, discipline, and responsibility. I hope you make wise decisions about your possible choice to get a living creature. Treat them with love, care, and respect!