Before getting a pet, ask yourself questions about your ability to care for it, such as whether you have enough time, space, and money. Consider if pets are allowed where you live and who will care for it when you cannot. It is important to properly care for a pet by meeting its needs, obeying laws, training it, providing veterinary care, cleaning up after it, and being prepared for emergencies. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends finding the right pet and vet for your situation.