Pet Basics

How to pick a pet you'll love―and care for it properly once you bring it home.

Your Questions, Answered

Ask Real Simple: How Do I Get Rid of Pet Hair?
You adore your pet, of course. You adore a little less having your clothing covered in your pet’s hair. Here’s how to shed it.

Where Should I Put a Cat-Litter Box?
Set up a litter box in any room that is well lit and where your pet feels comfortable. Read on to learn how to choose the right spot.

Pet Stories

5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet
Professional animal lovers reveal actions and attitudes you can borrow from Fido and Fluffy.

Then There Was You
Few bonds compare with those between us and our devoted pets. Here, Anne Roiphe reflects on her incomparable bond with her beloved cat, Joey.

Pet-Sitter Hiring Checklist

Heading out of town? Whether you're looking to book Buster a room at the nearest pet hotel or to find a sitter who makes house calls, follow these steps.

• Research boarding options or sitters. Sites such as campbowwowusa.com can help you locate a kennel or pet hotel near you. Find sitters in your area at petsitters.sittercity.com or through the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (petsitters.org).
• If you plan to board your pet, visit your top two or three choices. Tour the grounds and the sleeping accommodations. Ask: What will my pet’s day be like, hour by hour? How much interaction with other animals will my pet receive? Is there an extra charge for individual playtime? How many people will my pet interact with during the day? What will you do if he gets sick? Do you supply food and treats for my pet? Which local veterinarians refer clients to you?
• If hiring a sitter, interview candidates. Ask whether he or she knows pet CPR (offered at many Red Cross branches), has commercial liability insurance (for accident and negligence coverage), and is bonded (to protect against theft).

View The Entire Checklist