Having a pet in Animal Crossing: New Horizons may seem like a far-off dream, but it’s surprisingly achievable with a little creativity, according to PETS.EDU.VN. You can fashion unique makeshift pets by utilizing a special feature involving certain in-game critters, creating a virtual pet-owning experience. These alternatives to traditional pets like cats and dogs, which aren’t directly available, offer a delightful twist for players seeking companionship on their islands, making your island life even more vibrant with these animal companions, engaging gameplay, and adorable animal designs.
1. Understanding Pets in Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a unique twist on pet ownership. Instead of traditional pets, players can create makeshift companions using certain critters.
1.1. What Are MakeShift Pets?
MakeShift pets are sea creatures that don’t require tanks to be displayed in your home. When dropped on the ground, they simply exist as decorative items, giving the illusion of a pet.
1.2. Why Choose MakeShift Pets?
- Novelty: They offer a fun and unique way to personalize your island.
- Variety: A range of critters can be used, each with its own distinct appearance.
- Creativity: Players can design spaces and scenarios around their makeshift pets.
1.3. Limitations
- No Interaction: These pets can’t be interacted with like traditional video game pets.
- Aesthetics: Some critters might not appeal to all players due to their appearance.
- Limited Options: The number of suitable critters is limited.
1.4. Alternatives to Traditional Pets
While cats and dogs aren’t directly available as pets, the game does offer furniture like the Dog House and Cat Scratching Post. Players can combine these with makeshift pets to create a pet-friendly environment.
2. Top Critters for MakeShift Pets
Not all sea creatures are created equal. Some are more suited to the role of a makeshift pet than others. Let’s explore the top contenders.
2.1. Snapping Turtle
The Snapping Turtle is a popular choice. It dwells in rivers and is available from April through October in the Northern Hemisphere (and vice versa in the Southern Hemisphere) after 9 p.m. Its rarity is listed as uncommon, making it relatively easy to acquire.
2.2. Spider Crab
For those who don’t mind a creepy-crawly companion, the Spider Crab is an option. Available via diving from March through April in the Northern Hemisphere or September to October in the Southern Hemisphere, this critter has a rare rating, so it might take some time to find one.
2.3. Horseshoe Crab
The Horseshoe Crab offers an extraterrestrial appearance that some find charming. Active at night, it can be found via diving between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. from July through September in the Northern Hemisphere and January through March in the Southern Hemisphere.
2.4. Isopod
The Isopod is another option, though its insect-like appearance might not appeal to everyone. Available from July through October, these animals move quickly under the water. They are most active between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. and are fairly rare.
2.5. Sea Urchin
- Availability: All year round
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: Round, spiky, and comes in various colors.
- Why it works: Sea urchins are small and can be placed on tables or shelves, giving the impression of a tiny, low-maintenance pet.
2.6. Starfish
- Availability: All year round
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: Star-shaped and comes in various colors.
- Why it works: Starfish can be placed on the beach or near water features, adding to the coastal aesthetic of your island.
2.7. Gazami Crab
- Availability: July to November (Northern Hemisphere), January to May (Southern Hemisphere)
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: A small, colorful crab.
- Why it works: Gazami crabs are small and can be placed in beach-themed areas.
2.8. Dab
- Availability: All year round
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: A flat fish that blends in with the ground.
- Why it works: Dabs can be placed on the ground to create a unique, natural look.
2.9. Red Snapper
- Availability: All year round
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: A bright red fish.
- Why it works: Red snappers can be placed in fish markets or restaurants, adding to the atmosphere of your island.
2.10. Clownfish
- Availability: All year round
- Location: Sea
- Appearance: A small, orange fish with white stripes.
- Why it works: Clownfish can be placed in aquariums or near water features.
3. How to Catch Critters for Your MakeShift Pets
Catching the right critters requires patience and the right techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
3.1. Gathering the Right Tools
- Fishing Rod: Essential for catching fish in rivers and the sea.
- Net: Used to catch bugs and other small creatures.
- Wetsuit: Necessary for diving and catching sea creatures.
3.2. Knowing When and Where to Look
Each critter has its own availability window. Some are only available during certain months or times of day. Check the in-game Critterpedia or online resources to know when and where to find your desired pet.
3.3. Diving Techniques
When diving, look for shadows in the water. Medium, slow-moving shadows are often Horseshoe Crabs. Press Y to dive and swim towards the shadow. Press A to catch the creature when you’re close enough.
3.4. Fishing Techniques
Find a shadow in the river or sea. Cast your line in front of the fish and wait for it to bite. Press A when the fish bites to reel it in.
3.5. Bug Catching Techniques
Approach bugs slowly with your net equipped. When you’re close enough, press A to swing your net and catch the bug.
4. Designing the Perfect Pet Space
Once you’ve caught your makeshift pet, it’s time to create a space for them to live.
4.1. Choosing the Right Location
Consider the critter’s natural habitat when choosing a location. A Snapping Turtle might be happy near a river, while a Spider Crab could feel at home on the beach.
4.2. Decorating with Theme-Appropriate Items
Use furniture and decorations that match the theme of your pet’s habitat. For a beach-themed area, use beach chairs, umbrellas, and sandcastles. For a forest-themed area, use trees, bushes, and rocks.
4.3. Utilizing In-Game Furniture
The Dog House and Cat Scratching Post can be used to create a pet-friendly atmosphere, even if you don’t have traditional pets.
4.4. Adding Personal Touches
Add personal touches to make the space your own. Use custom designs, photos, or other items that reflect your personality.
4.5. Theme Ideas for Pet Spaces
| Theme | Description | Recommended Critters |
|---|---|---|
| Beach | A sunny, sandy area with beach chairs, umbrellas, and sandcastles. | Starfish, Gazami Crab |
| Forest | A lush, green area with trees, bushes, and rocks. | Snapping Turtle |
| Aquarium | An indoor space with tanks and water features. | Clownfish, Sea Urchin |
| Natural Habitat | Create natural-looking environments using custom designs and furniture. | Dab, Red Snapper |
5. Creative Ways to Display Your MakeShift Pets
Beyond simply placing them on the ground, there are many creative ways to display your makeshift pets.
5.1. Incorporating Them Into Scenes
Create scenes around your pets. For example, you could place a Snapping Turtle near a picnic blanket with some food items.
5.2. Using Them as Part of a Collection
Create a collection of makeshift pets and display them in a dedicated room or area.
5.3. Creating Hilarious Photo Opportunities
The Isopod, when placed on the ground, is in a little box, leading to hilarious photo opportunities.
5.4. Placement Ideas
- Tables and Shelves: Small critters like Sea Urchins can be placed on tables and shelves.
- Beaches and Water Features: Starfish and Gazami Crabs can be placed on beaches or near water features.
- Fish Markets and Restaurants: Red Snappers can be placed in fish markets or restaurants.
5.5. Utilizing Custom Designs
Custom designs can be used to create unique habitats for your pets. For example, you could create a custom design for a fish tank or a forest floor.
6. Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions
Some players might have concerns or misconceptions about using critters as makeshift pets. Let’s address some of these.
6.1. Are These Actual Pets?
No, these critters are not actual pets in the traditional sense. They cannot be interacted with like a pet.
6.2. Will They Run Away?
No, these critters will not run away. Once placed, they will remain in that location.
6.3. Is It Cruel to Keep Them?
Since these are digital creatures, there is no cruelty involved in keeping them as makeshift pets.
6.4. Do They Require Special Care?
No, these critters do not require special care. They are simply decorative items.
6.5. Can They Breed?
No, these critters cannot breed.
7. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Other Types of Animals
Animal Crossing: New Horizons, beyond the creative use of critters as makeshift pets, teems with diverse animal life, contributing significantly to the game’s charm and immersive experience. Let’s delve into the various categories of animals players encounter and interact with throughout their island adventures.
7.1. Villagers
- Description: Villagers are non-player characters (NPCs) that reside on the player’s island, each possessing unique personalities, appearances, and homes.
- Interaction: Players can engage with villagers through conversations, gift exchanges, and participation in island events, fostering relationships that enrich the gameplay experience.
- Types: Villagers are categorized into various species such as cats, dogs, squirrels, bears, and more, each with distinct traits that contribute to the island’s diversity.
- Behavior: Villagers exhibit behaviors that mirror real-life interactions, including roaming around the island, engaging in hobbies, and inviting players to their homes, fostering a sense of community.
7.2. Wildlife
- Description: Wildlife encompasses a wide array of creatures that inhabit the island’s ecosystems, ranging from bugs and fish to sea creatures and birds.
- Interaction: Players can interact with wildlife by catching bugs with nets, fishing in rivers and the sea, diving for sea creatures, and observing birds perched on trees or soaring through the sky.
- Economic Value: Wildlife serves an economic purpose, as players can sell their catches to Nook’s Cranny for Bells, contributing to their financial progress in the game.
- Seasonal Variation: The types of wildlife available vary depending on the season and time of day, adding an element of realism and encouraging players to explore the island at different times.
7.3. Special Characters
- Description: Special characters are NPCs that visit the player’s island periodically, offering unique services, items, or events that enhance the gameplay experience.
- Examples: Notable special characters include Tom Nook, Isabelle, K.K. Slider, and the Able Sisters, each playing a distinct role in the island’s development and community.
- Functionality: Special characters contribute to the game’s narrative and provide players with opportunities to progress, customize their island, and engage in social activities.
- Events: Some special characters host seasonal events or celebrations that offer exclusive rewards and activities, fostering a sense of anticipation and community among players.
7.4. Pets
- Description: While Animal Crossing: New Horizons doesn’t feature traditional pets like cats or dogs, players can simulate pet ownership through creative means.
- MakeShift Pets: Players can use certain critters, such as sea creatures or bugs, as makeshift pets by placing them in their homes or on the island, creating the illusion of companionship.
- Customization: Players can customize the environment around their makeshift pets to resemble a pet-friendly space, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and immersive experience.
- Symbolic Value: Despite not being interactive, these makeshift pets hold symbolic value, providing players with a sense of attachment and emotional connection to their virtual companions.
7.5. Livestock
- Description: Animal Crossing: New Horizons features a variety of livestock animals that contribute to the island’s rural charm and agricultural activities.
- Examples: Livestock animals include chickens, cows, pigs, and sheep, which can be found roaming around the island or residing in designated farm areas.
- Functionality: Livestock animals serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, adding to the island’s visual appeal and providing resources such as eggs, milk, and wool.
- Interaction: Players can interact with livestock animals by observing their behaviors, listening to their sounds, and sometimes receiving gifts or favors from them.
7.6. Mythical Creatures
- Description: Animal Crossing: New Horizons occasionally introduces mythical creatures or characters that add a touch of fantasy and wonder to the gameplay experience.
- Examples: Mythical creatures may include dragons, unicorns, or characters inspired by folklore and mythology, appearing during special events or as part of limited-time promotions.
- Rarity: Mythical creatures are often rare and elusive, making their appearance on the island a memorable and exciting event for players.
- Unique Interactions: Interacting with mythical creatures may unlock special rewards, quests, or dialogue options, adding depth and intrigue to the game’s narrative.
8. The Role of Pets in Animal Crossing: New Horizons
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, pets, whether actual or makeshift, play a significant role in enhancing the gameplay experience and fostering a sense of connection and companionship. While the game may not offer traditional pets like cats or dogs, players have found creative ways to simulate pet ownership and integrate animals into their island life.
8.1. Companionship and Emotional Connection
- MakeShift Pets: MakeShift pets, such as sea creatures or bugs placed in homes or on the island, provide players with a sense of companionship and emotional connection.
- Symbolic Value: Despite not being interactive, these makeshift pets hold symbolic value, offering players a source of comfort and attachment in their virtual world.
- Personalization: Players can personalize the environment around their makeshift pets, creating a pet-friendly space that reflects their individual style and preferences.
- Emotional Well-being: The presence of pets, whether real or simulated, contributes to the emotional well-being of players, reducing feelings of loneliness and promoting a sense of belonging.
8.2. Aesthetic Enhancement and Island Customization
- Visual Appeal: Animals, including pets, add to the visual appeal of the island, enhancing its charm and creating a more immersive and inviting environment.
- Island Customization: Players can customize their island with pet-themed decorations, furniture, and landscaping, creating unique spaces that reflect their love for animals.
- Creativity and Expression: Integrating pets into island design allows players to express their creativity and showcase their personal style, making their island a reflection of their personality.
- Community Engagement: Sharing pet-themed island designs and creations with the Animal Crossing community fosters engagement and encourages players to exchange ideas and inspiration.
8.3. Social Interaction and Community Building
- Shared Interest: Pets serve as a shared interest among Animal Crossing players, sparking conversations, collaborations, and friendships based on their love for animals.
- Online Communities: Players can join online communities and forums dedicated to Animal Crossing pets, sharing tips, tricks, and stories about their virtual companions.
- Island Visits: Visiting other players’ islands and admiring their pet-themed designs promotes social interaction and allows players to connect over their shared love for animals.
- Community Events: Participating in community events and challenges centered around pets fosters a sense of belonging and encourages players to celebrate their virtual companions together.
8.4. Educational Value and Empathy Development
- Responsibility and Care: Caring for virtual pets, even if they are makeshift, teaches players about responsibility and the importance of providing for the needs of others.
- Empathy and Compassion: Interacting with animals in the game promotes empathy and compassion, helping players develop a greater understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
- Animal Welfare Awareness: Animal Crossing can raise awareness about animal welfare issues, encouraging players to support animal shelters, conservation efforts, and responsible pet ownership in real life.
- Learning Opportunities: Players can learn about different animal species, their habitats, and their behaviors through the game, expanding their knowledge and fostering a lifelong love for animals.
8.5. Stress Relief and Relaxation
- Therapeutic Effects: Interacting with pets in Animal Crossing has therapeutic effects, reducing stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation.
- Calming Influence: The presence of animals on the island creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere, providing players with a peaceful escape from the pressures of daily life.
- Positive Emotions: Playing with pets elicits positive emotions such as joy, happiness, and contentment, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- Mindfulness and Presence: Caring for pets encourages players to practice mindfulness and presence, focusing on the present moment and appreciating the simple joys of virtual pet ownership.
9. Expert Tips for Enhancing Your Animal Crossing Pet Experience
Enhancing your Animal Crossing pet experience involves creativity, customization, and a dash of imagination. Whether you’re creating makeshift pets or designing pet-themed areas on your island, there are several tips and tricks to elevate your virtual pet ownership to the next level.
9.1. Creative Pet Customization and Design Ideas
- Custom Pet Outfits: Design custom outfits for your animal villagers to dress them up in adorable pet-themed attire. Create matching outfits for yourself and your virtual companions to showcase your bond.
- Pet-Themed Island Areas: Dedicate specific areas of your island to pet-themed activities and designs. Create a dog park with agility courses, a cat cafe with cozy seating, or a wildlife sanctuary with natural habitats.
- Pet Memorials: Honor your real-life pets by creating memorial areas on your island. Include photos, custom designs, and special items that commemorate your beloved companions.
- Pet-Inspired Home Decor: Decorate your in-game home with pet-inspired furniture, wallpapers, and flooring. Create cozy corners for your virtual pets to relax and unwind, such as pet beds, scratching posts, and toy bins.
9.2. Interacting with Animal Villagers in Pet-Centric Ways
- Pet-Themed Conversations: Engage in pet-themed conversations with your animal villagers. Ask them about their favorite animals, share stories about your real-life pets, and discuss your love for all creatures great and small.
- Gift Exchanges: Exchange pet-themed gifts with your animal villagers to strengthen your bond and show your appreciation for their companionship. Offer them pet toys, treats, and accessories that match their personality and style.
- Pet-Friendly Activities: Participate in pet-friendly activities with your animal villagers, such as taking them for walks around the island, playing fetch with them in the park, or hosting pet talent shows with fun prizes.
- Pet Adoption Events: Organize pet adoption events on your island to welcome new animal villagers into your community. Provide them with a warm welcome, offer them a place to stay, and help them adjust to their new home.
9.3. Maximizing MakeShift Pet Interactions and Enjoyment
- Creative Pet Placement: Experiment with creative pet placement ideas to enhance the visual appeal of your island. Place sea creatures in custom-designed aquariums, bugs in terrariums, and stuffed animals in cozy corners.
- Pet-Themed Photo Shoots: Organize pet-themed photo shoots with your animal villagers and makeshift pets. Capture adorable moments and create lasting memories that celebrate your virtual companionship.
- Pet-Centric Island Tours: Offer pet-centric island tours to visitors, showcasing your pet-themed designs, activities, and interactions. Share your love for animals and inspire others to embrace virtual pet ownership in Animal Crossing.
- Pet-Inspired Storytelling: Create pet-inspired stories and narratives that bring your virtual companions to life. Share these stories with the Animal Crossing community through screenshots, videos, and written content.
9.4. Integrating Pets Into Island Events and Activities
- Pet Costume Contests: Host pet costume contests during island events and celebrations. Invite animal villagers to dress up in their best pet-themed costumes and compete for prizes.
- Pet-Themed Treasure Hunts: Organize pet-themed treasure hunts on your island, hiding pet toys, treats, and accessories for animal villagers to find. Provide clues and riddles that lead to the hidden treasures.
- Pet Parade: Organize a pet parade on your island, inviting animal villagers to march together in a festive procession. Decorate the parade route with pet-themed banners, balloons, and confetti.
- Pet Charity Fundraisers: Host pet charity fundraisers on your island to support real-life animal shelters and rescue organizations. Collect donations, sell pet-themed merchandise, and raise awareness about animal welfare issues.
9.5. Enhancing the Emotional Connection with Virtual Pets
- Pet Name Personalization: Give your virtual pets unique and meaningful names that reflect their personality and style. Use name tags or custom designs to display their names proudly.
- Pet Communication: Practice communicating with your virtual pets through emotes, gestures, and dialogue options. Express your love, gratitude, and appreciation for their companionship.
- Pet Comfort and Care: Provide your virtual pets with comfort and care when they are feeling sad, lonely, or scared. Offer them a warm hug, a kind word, and a safe space to relax and unwind.
- Pet Bonding Activities: Engage in regular bonding activities with your virtual pets, such as cuddling, playing, and grooming. Strengthen your bond and create lasting memories that enrich your Animal Crossing experience.
10. The Future of Pets in Animal Crossing
As Animal Crossing continues to evolve with updates and new installments, the future of pets in the game remains an exciting prospect. While the series has traditionally lacked traditional pet ownership mechanics, the creativity of players and the potential for future updates suggest that pets could play an even more significant role in the Animal Crossing experience.
10.1. Potential New Features and Updates
- Traditional Pet Ownership: Future Animal Crossing games could introduce traditional pet ownership mechanics, allowing players to adopt, care for, and interact with cats, dogs, and other animals.
- Pet Customization Options: New pet customization options could allow players to personalize their pets with unique accessories, clothing, and hairstyles.
- Pet-Centric Activities and Events: Future updates could introduce pet-centric activities and events, such as pet shows, agility courses, and adoption drives.
- Pet-Specific Dialogue and Interactions: Animal villagers could have pet-specific dialogue and interactions, acknowledging and interacting with the player’s pets in meaningful ways.
10.2. Community Wishlist and Expectations
- More Animal Variety: Players have expressed a desire for more animal variety in Animal Crossing, including exotic pets like birds, reptiles, and rodents.
- Pet Breeding and Genetics: Some players have suggested implementing pet breeding and genetics systems, allowing players to breed unique pets with desirable traits.
- Pet Training and Skills: Players have proposed pet training and skills systems, allowing players to teach their pets tricks, commands, and useful skills.
- Pet Integration with Island Life: The community hopes for greater integration of pets into island life, with pets participating in island events, helping with chores, and interacting with other villagers.
10.3. The Role of Technology and Innovation
- Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: Future Animal Crossing games could incorporate AR technology, allowing players to interact with their virtual pets in the real world.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Enhancements: AI enhancements could allow pets to exhibit more realistic behaviors, emotions, and interactions, making them feel more alive and responsive.
- Cross-Platform Pet Ownership: Players could have the ability to own and care for their pets across multiple Animal Crossing games and platforms, creating a seamless and interconnected experience.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Integration: VR integration could allow players to immerse themselves fully in the world of Animal Crossing, interacting with their pets and exploring their island in a more realistic and engaging way.
10.4. Impact on Gameplay and Player Experience
- Enhanced Emotional Connection: Pets could enhance the emotional connection between players and their virtual world, providing companionship, comfort, and emotional support.
- Increased Player Engagement: Pet-centric activities and events could increase player engagement and retention, encouraging players to invest more time and effort into the game.
- Greater Customization and Personalization: Pet customization options could provide players with greater opportunities for self-expression and personalization, making their Animal Crossing experience more unique and meaningful.
- Community Building and Social Interaction: Pets could foster community building and social interaction, connecting players through their shared love for animals and creating opportunities for collaboration and cooperation.
10.5. Ethical Considerations and Responsible Pet Ownership
- Animal Welfare Awareness: Future Animal Crossing games could promote animal welfare awareness, educating players about responsible pet ownership, animal conservation, and ethical treatment of animals.
- Pet Adoption and Rescue Initiatives: The game could partner with real-life animal shelters and rescue organizations to promote pet adoption and raise awareness about the importance of rescuing animals in need.
- Virtual Pet Neglect Prevention: Animal Crossing could implement measures to prevent virtual pet neglect, such as reminders to care for pets, penalties for neglectful behavior, and support resources for struggling players.
- Positive Representation of Animals: The game could strive to represent animals in a positive and respectful manner, avoiding stereotypes, harmful depictions, and exploitative practices.
By embracing innovation, listening to the community, and prioritizing ethical considerations, the future of pets in Animal Crossing holds tremendous potential to enhance gameplay, enrich the player experience, and promote responsible pet ownership in both the virtual and real worlds.
FAQ: All About Pets in Animal Crossing: New Horizons
1. Can you get a pet in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
While you can’t get traditional pets like cats or dogs, you can use certain critters as makeshift pets by placing them in your home or on your island.
2. What are the best critters to use as makeshift pets?
Some popular choices include the Snapping Turtle, Spider Crab, Horseshoe Crab, and Isopod.
3. How do you catch critters for makeshift pets?
You’ll need the right tools, such as a fishing rod, net, and wetsuit. Check the Critterpedia to find out when and where each critter is available.
4. How do you create a pet-friendly space on your island?
Choose a location that matches the critter’s natural habitat and decorate with theme-appropriate items. Use in-game furniture like the Dog House and Cat Scratching Post.
5. Are there any limitations to using critters as pets?
Yes, these critters cannot be interacted with like traditional pets, and some might not appeal to all players due to their appearance.
6. Is it cruel to keep these critters as pets?
Since these are digital creatures, there is no cruelty involved in keeping them as makeshift pets.
7. What is the purpose of a pet parade?
A pet parade is to show off and celebrate all the pets on the island and include animal villagers in the festive procession.
8. What can you do to enhance an emotional connection with a virtual pet?
Give your virtual pets unique and meaningful names that reflect their personality and style. Use name tags or custom designs to display their names proudly.
9. How can Animal Crossing promote responsible pet ownership?
The game can promote animal welfare awareness, educating players about responsible pet ownership, animal conservation, and ethical treatment of animals.
10. How can technology shape the future of pets in Animal Crossing?
Future Animal Crossing games could incorporate AR technology, allowing players to interact with their virtual pets in the real world.
Creating makeshift pets in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a fun and creative way to personalize your island and add a touch of companionship. By following these tips and tricks, you can create a pet-friendly paradise that reflects your love for animals. For more detailed guides and expert advice on all things pet-related, visit PETS.EDU.VN. Our comprehensive resources will help you navigate the world of pet care, ensuring your virtual and real-life companions thrive, which includes adopting strategies for animal companionship, engaging gameplay features, and crafting pet-centric island designs.
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