Choosing the Right Pet
Pets can be wonderful companions in retirement, offering comfort, love, and entertainment. But not all of them are easy to care for, especially if your health isn’t what it used to be. These 12 pets come with surprising challenges that can make them more trouble than they’re worth.
Border Collies
These dogs are brilliant and beautiful - but they need constant activity. They're herding breeds, so if they don’t have a job, they’ll invent one… like tearing up your sofa or trying to herd your grandchilden. Alas, they’re just not recommended for a retired person.
Ferrets
Ferrets are basically like furry babies. They’re playful, wiggly, and downright adorable, but they also bite, hide things, and need a lot of supervision. Their cages need frequent cleaning, and it’s easy to lose one, because they can escape through tight spaces.
Siamese Cats
Siamese cats are very popular, there’s no doubt about that, but they’re also high-maintenance drama queens like the rest of their breathren. They crave constant attention and won’t hesitate to yowl about it. As you can imagine, that can get overwhelming fast, especially if you just want peace and quiet.
Huskies
Huskies are very photogenic, but they’re also high-maintenance… more than your average retired person can handle, unfortunately, especially if either party has health needs. These dogs also love to dig up yards, ruining all your hard work in the garden.
Parrots
If you ever find yourself tempted to buy a parrot, do a lot of research first. You’ll soon find out how incredibly difficult they are to keep as pets. If they don’t get a lot of care and attention, feather-plucking and screaming soon happens. Plus, you have to consider that it might well outlive you.
Chihuahuas
They’re small, but don’t let that fool you - Chihuahuas and other toy dogs can be mean, especially with strangers or young children. Some are fiercely protective and prone to barking. They’re adorable in their own way, but way more work than you might expect.
Exotic Fish Tanks
Aquariums look peaceful, but saltwater or tropical tanks are a lot of work. Water chemistry has to be just right, and filters, heaters, and lights need constant monitoring. One wrong move and you’ve got sick or dying fish. Only embark on owning fish if you’re really dedicated to them.
Dalmatians
These spotted dogs are famous thanks to Disney, but they’re not the easiest dogs to live with. Dalmatians are high-energy, stubborn, and prone to health issues like deafness or urinary problems. They need consistent training and lots of physical activity, which can be a tall order if you’re retired.
Rabbits
Rabbits might seem like quiet, low-maintenance pets, but they’re actually sensitive, easily stressed, and need daily interaction and care. They can be trained, but accidents happen. Plus, their teeth never stop growing, so they’ll gnaw on furniture, headphone cords, wires, all sorts of important things.
Beagles
They’re not all like Snoopy. People are lured in to Beagles by their big eyes and floppy ears, and then often find themselves with a problem on their hands. They’re notorious for escaping, barking, and being stubborn during training.
Guinea Pigs
They're cute, cuddly, and children love them - but guinea pigs are surprisingly delicate and require daily care. Their cages need regular cleaning, and they can develop health issues quickly if not monitored. They also need a buddy (or two) to keep them happy, which means more work and more noise.
Shih Tzus
They may seem like the perfect lapdogs, but the Shih Tzus need regular grooming - sometimes every 4 to 6 weeks. That can get pricey, or physically demanding if you try doing it yourself. Their coats tangle easily, and skipping trims leads to discomfort and health issues. They’re just not low-maintenance enough for a retired person, unfortunately.
