Things to consider before buying

Before you run out and purchase your new pet, or even talk to your younger family members about the possibility, it's best to take an inventory of your funds. The most helpful way to do this, I've found, is to make a list. Sorry, kids, this usually doesn't work out in your favor. Parents, step up to the plate!

Make a list of all your monthly costs:
Rent/mortgage
All insurance (health, life, home, auto, etc.)
All utilities (electric, phone, internet, garbage, sewer, water, etc.)
Transportation costs
Health (doctor visits, current vet costs, prescriptions, etc.)
Food (going out, too!)

Also keep note of how often you go out to the movies, or to the zoo-- All those outings to keep everyone entertained and out of trouble. Don't forget to budget for allowances

After you've got the list down to the fullest, compare it with your family's total income, after taxes.

Now consider basic pet needs. Do a little bit of average research-- this sort of thing can be done on the internet without too much fear of e-manipulation. Find out,

-How much a bag of food will cost, how much your pet should eat, and (based on that information) about how often you'll need to purchase new food.
-Waste control (litter, pooper-scoopers, cage bedding, litter boxes, doggy bags, etc.) Most pets will have a suggested once- to twice-weekly cleaning.
-Food and water bowls and bottles
-Toys (not just for dogs and cats!!)
-Confinement, cages, pet gates, kennels, etc.
-Grooming supplies and/or services (also not just for dogs and cats!)
-Vet bills (Not always cheap, even for small pets)
Consider pet insurance, especially for more expensive, or more exotic pets.

This will give you a general idea for just one pet.

Now, if it's still looking like a possibility, start discussing with your family, and make a project out of researching what needs your pet will have. Feel free to use this site, but look other places, too!

Remember, a pet's sticker price is never as it seems. There is no such thing as a free pet-- Except maybe that squirrel that wanders into the yard every few days