© RSPCA 2009. All rights reserved.

Anyone in charge of, or in control of, an animal has a duty of care towards it. This duty of care should include providing the animal with suitable accommodation, an adequate diet, protection against disease, pain and injury and ensuring that it can exhibit normal behaviour.

Points to consider before you choose your pet include:

• research the species of animal you plan to keep - each species will have special needs
• prepare a stable home
• make sure you have the appropriate food
• find a vet with experience of treating the species of animal you plan to keep.
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Go to the RSPCA website for a more detailed view on types of fish, frogs, snails etc.