During our lifetime most of us have some experience of either owning a pet or being (1) ... close contact with someone who does. Various factors influence one's choice of pets, from your reasons (2) ... getting a pet to your lifestyle. For example, although quite a few pets are relatively cheap to buy, (3) ... cost of maintenance can be considerable. Everything must be taken (4) ... account, from food and bedding, to vaccinations and veterinary bills. You must be prepared to spend money and time (5) ... your pet, which involves shopping for it, cleaning and feeding it. Pets can be demanding and (6) ... big responsibility. People get pets for company, security or to teach responsibility (7) ... children. Pets can be affectionate and loyal and (8) ... excellent source of company as long as you know what pet suits you and your lifestyle.