Description
The establishment of animal shelters and adoption centers across Alyria has afforded players the opportunity to adopt pets to keep in their homes. Pets make great companions for lonely adventurers and enliven the atmosphere of player owned homes. They can be quite entertaining both through player interaction and when left to their own devices. Although pets are normally restricted to the home, owners are able to summon them with the aid of an enchanted whistle.
Adopting A Pet
Pets and pet supplies may be purchased for reward units at the Van Pelt Emporium near the Towne of Rune. If a home has two owners, the new pet will recognize both as its masters. Multiple pets may be placed in a home, although only one pet (or rather, its food source) may be placed per room. The fee for adoption covers 4 Alyrian years worth of food, which is about one year "real time".
Selection
Pets come in many shapes and sizes. When looking to adopt a pet, the adopter can select the characteristics desired as well as of course giving the pet a name. (The name must conform to the naming rules; see HELP NAMES) It is possible to preview a pet selection before confirming the adoption. This can be done any number of times using an adoption voucher.
Features
Pets are living creatures, they require food, rest, attention, and entertainment.
Food Newly adopted pets come with a food supply that needs no owner intervention until it runs out. If the food supply runs out, an additional 4 Alyrian years worth of food may be purchased at an animal shelter. If there is no food remaining, the pet will leave until more is added.
Energy Pets require rest to renew their energy. Pet snacks may be purchased at certain pet shops that temporarily renew the pet's energy. However, they cannot be expected to go without sleep for long periods of time, and cannot eat more than they can fit in their stomachs. Special furniture is available to accommodate pets as well, for they deserve the utmost comfort. Pet furniture improves the quality of a pet's rest and will allow a pet to regain energy faster.
Attention Pets need attention from their owners. Using various social commands such as PET will alter a pet's opinion of you. The more positive attention is given, the better the pet will respond. Conversely, of course, being unpleasant to your pet may severely harm its disposition toward you. Additionally, playing with your pet tends to greatly improve an owner-pet relationship. Several toys suitable for pets can be found throughout the world of Alyria.
Commands and Tricks
Pets are generally smart animals. As such they can be taught certain tricks and commands. These tricks are described in detail below. Some commands and tricks are available right away after adoption, while others must be taught to the animal from various one use training guides available for purchase.
Furnishing A Suitable Home
Pets, like people, enjoy a stimulating an environment. They benefit from having items to play with and furniture to interact with inside a home. Certain pets also have specific needs that are described below.
Movement
Outside the home pets are able to follow their owners almost anywhere granted that they have sufficient energy and desire to do so. At home pets have liberty to wander around at the discretion of the owners (including all sections of the home up to the street). In order for them to be free to walk around the house they might first be shown around. This is done by asking the pet to follow you by either a SAYTO FOLLOW instruction or by BECKONing the pet. A pet will randomly move around the house as it sees fit, and will usually prefer rooms which are more interesting than others (usually based on the contents of the room). A pet has limited ability to open unlocked doors. Additionally, special pet doors may be installed to allow a pet to walk through any door effortlessly.