Best Pets for Busy People: Nurse Life Friendly Animals

What are the best pets for busy people like nurses? Obviously, a brand new puppy will be too much work if you live alone and work multiple 12-hour shifts. So let’s look at some other pets that are even better for busy people like us.

Best Pets for Busy People: Nurse Life Friendly Animals

Nurses are known as some of the best caretakers. We make a living out of taking care of strangers. So, it goes without saying that we usually carry some compassionate traits.

It’s only natural for nurses like us to want to take part in the adventure that is becoming a pet owner. But nurses work long shifts. With drive time and prep, a nurse can be unavailable for over 15 hours a day. At this point, you may ask, how can a nurse fit the time to care for a pet with their busy lifestyle?

If you live alone, dogs are usually out of the question. Working 12-hour shifts at night means that no one will be able to walk your dog or take them outside.

Luckily, there are lots of animals that aren’t as needy as you would imagine. Here are some of the best choices in pets for busy nurses.

Cats

Cats are one of the best pets for busy people. Sure, they have a tendency to be a bit cheeky when it comes to humans or even other animals in some cases, but this doesn’t mean some of them aren’t capable of being sweet and cuddly. Cats practically take care of themselves.

You just need to make sure they have food, water, and to be around for the occasional head bump. Owning a cat is also perfect in terms of convenience when it comes to picking up food, litter, treats or toys since most grocery stores carry feline supplies. Cats are definitely among the top tier of pets for any individual with a hectic schedule.

Rabbits

If you work night shifts, rabbits might be a better option for your sleep schedule. Rabbits can be left alone for long periods of time as long as they have food, water, a clean cage and maybe a toy. While some rabbits are timider and scared of owners, lots of others have large personalities and can bond very closely with their owners.

Rabbits are typically companion animals as well, so you may consider buying two of them so they can keep each other occupied when you aren’t home.

Reptiles

Lots of small reptiles are also ideal for the nurse without a lot of time to care for an animal. Some examples are bearded dragons, geckos, and even snakes if you can tolerate them. While bearded dragons and geckos do need to be fed every day, their bowl can be filled up and they will eat when they’re hungry throughout the time of your shift. Snakes, however, eat less often depending on their size. Some snakes will eat only once or twice a week.

Fish

Compared to any other pet, fish are most likely to be voted the easiest. They only need a minimum amount of food, and some space to swim around and they’re happy. The most tedious part of owning fish is the actual tank cleaning, but it is necessary to keep your fish healthy. While owning fish is relatively simple, they lack the ability to be affectionate with their owners. So, a friendly pet may have to be sacrificed for the advantage of owning a pet with ease.

Can a Nurse Have a Dog?

We are not here to pass judgment on your ability to care for a dog as a single nurse. There are some dogs that are much less excitable and easier to care for than others. The major issue is giving a dog enough exercise and allowing them the time they need to go on walks. There are options like pet pads and grass pads that can make dog ownership more accessible. Also, living with family or roommates that will help take your dog outside can make a major difference in your ability to care for a dog while working long shifts.

Get Help With Your Dog While at Work or Play

If you work 12-hour shifts and need someone to walk your dog while you are away, Rover is a great solution to help care for your furry friend while you are away. They offer a variety of services to help you and your dog be stress-free while you’re at work or even on vacation.

Dog Boarding – Overnight pet care in your sitter’s home.
House Sitting – Overnight pet care in your home.
Dog Walking – 30-minute walk around the neighborhood.
Doggy Day Care – Daytime pet care in your sitter’s dog-friendly home.
Drop-In Visits – For potty breaks and quick play dates.

Check Out Rover and Get $10 off Your First Booking

Where to Find Pets for Busy People

If you are looking to get a new pet, please adopt it if you can. There are a lot of cats in adoption shelters looking for a forever home. You can search for cats and rabbits on PetFinder.

And after you adopt a new cat or dog, please spay or neuter it. Prevent those unexpected new kittens or baby animals. For even more resources for pet supplies, tips on caring for your pet, and more you can also check out Everything Pet Stuff.

These are only a few of some of the best pets to own as a nurse, with hectic or spur-of-the-moment work schedules.

Can nurses have pets?

Yes! There are many pets that are low maintenance that make great pets for nurses. Nurses with families that can help care for a pet have even more options for furry, feathered, or scaled companions.

What is the cheapest pet to have?

There are many cheap pets. Hermit crabs, goldfish, and other small animals are some of the most affordable pet options.

Are cats good pets for busy people?

Yes! Cats are great pets for busy people. Cats tend to take care of themselves and usually do not destroy things when left alone for long periods of time.