Low maintenance house pets: How to find your perfect match

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 07/16/2023

Many homeowners want an animal companion, but know it can be difficult to decide which house pets are best for their home. Depending on where you live, some pets may not be as common or even not allowed by local laws. The amount of space and time commitment may also be on your mind – how do you pick the best pet for your lifestyle?

Low-maintenance, small-space pets do exist, but it’s important to know how to provide for them. Here is some basic information about which house pets might work best for your home:

What animals are common house pets?

Some of the most common animals raised as house pets include:

Cats
Dogs
Birds
Guinea pigs
Hamsters
Reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles)
Fish

What is the easiest indoor pet?

If you’re interested in low maintenance pets, consider species that don’t require constant human interaction. Reptiles like snakes, chameleons and bearded dragons can be affectionate and form a bond with their humans, but for the most part, are happy to live their lives undisturbed.

One way to keep pets entertained is to have more than one. For instance, having two cats instead of one will allow them to play together and enjoy natural interactions even if you can’t spend the entire day with them. Other animals like fish or hermit crabs thrive when living among other creatures in the same environment.

What pet needs the least space?

Some pets require plenty of space – often more than the run of the entire house. If you’re interested in a pet without a large space requirement, terrarium animals are a great start. Reptiles like turtles and snakes can live in a relatively small environment as long as their needs are met. Depending on the size, a pet tarantula can live happily in a tabletop terrarium.

Consider your chosen pet’s natural habitat and instincts when deciding how much space they need. For example, cats are very territorial, and appreciate having enough space to have time to themselves. Some breeds of dogs are better suited for small spaces, while others need plenty of room for regular exercise.

Are you ready to find your perfect house pet? Whether you want something soft and fuzzy like a guinea pig, or something more independent and exotic like a tarantula, these tips will help you make the best decision in selecting an animal friend.

About the Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”