Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test: How to Ace the “Describe a Pet You Have Had” Question

The topic of describing a pet is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a common theme in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language effectively.

Describe a pet you have or had is a versatile topic that can be approached from various angles, making it an excellent opportunity for test-takers to showcase their English language skills. Let’s explore how to tackle this question across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about pets. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you have any pets?
2. What kind of pets are popular in your country?
3. Did you have any pets when you were a child?

Let’s focus on answering the third question:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, I did. When I was around eight years old, my family adopted a golden retriever puppy. We named him Buddy, and he quickly became an integral part of our household. Having Buddy as a pet was a wonderful experience that taught me a lot about responsibility and companionship.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Pet You Have Had.
You should say:

• What kind of pet it was
• When you got it
• How you cared for it
  And explain why this pet was special to you.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about my beloved cat, Whiskers, whom I had for over a decade. Whiskers was a magnificent Persian cat with long, silky fur and striking green eyes. We adopted her from a local animal shelter when I was in high school, about 15 years ago.

Caring for Whiskers was a significant responsibility that I took very seriously. Her long coat required daily grooming to prevent matting, so I would spend time each evening brushing her fur, which became a bonding ritual for us. I also ensured she had a balanced diet of high-quality cat food and fresh water, and I took her for regular check-ups at the veterinarian to maintain her health.

What made Whiskers truly special was her unique personality. She was incredibly affectionate and would often curl up on my lap while I was studying or reading, providing a comforting presence during stressful times. Whiskers also had an uncanny ability to sense when I was feeling down and would offer silent support by staying close to me.

Moreover, Whiskers played a crucial role in teaching me about empathy and responsibility. Caring for her broadened my perspective on the needs of others and helped me develop a sense of duty towards those dependent on me. She was more than just a pet; she was a loyal companion who enriched my life in countless ways.

In retrospect, having Whiskers as a pet was an invaluable experience that shaped my character and left me with cherished memories that I’ll always treasure.”

Persian cat being groomed by owner

Possible follow-up questions:

1. How did having a pet impact your daily routine?
2. What challenges did you face while taking care of your pet?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“Having Whiskers significantly influenced my daily routine. I had to structure my day around her feeding times and grooming sessions, which taught me valuable lessons in time management and prioritization. It also instilled a sense of discipline in me, as I needed to wake up early to feed her before school and ensure I was home at reasonable hours to take care of her needs. This responsibility helped me become more organized and conscientious in other areas of my life as well.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to pets and animals. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of keeping pets?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“There are several pros and cons to pet ownership. On the positive side, pets can provide companionship and emotional support, which can be especially beneficial for people living alone or dealing with stress. They can also teach children about responsibility and empathy. However, there are also drawbacks to consider. Pets require a significant investment of time and money for proper care, including food, medical expenses, and daily attention. Additionally, some people may have allergies or live in accommodations that don’t allow pets, which can be limiting.”

2. Do you think people should be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“This is a contentious issue with valid arguments on both sides. While I understand the allure of owning unique animals, I believe that keeping exotic animals as pets should be heavily regulated, if not prohibited in most cases. Exotic animals often have specialized needs that are difficult to meet in a domestic environment, which can lead to poor welfare for the animals. There are also potential risks to public safety and the environment if these animals escape or are released.

Moreover, the exotic pet trade can have devastating effects on wild populations and ecosystems. Many exotic animals are captured from the wild, which can disrupt natural habitats and contribute to the decline of endangered species. Instead of keeping exotic animals as pets, I think we should focus on conservation efforts and appreciating these animals in their natural habitats or in properly managed wildlife sanctuaries.”

Exotic pet vs wildlife conservation concept

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Integral part – /ˈɪntɪɡrəl pɑːrt/ (adjective phrase): Essential or fundamental.
   Example: “My dog became an integral part of our family.”

2. Companionship – /kəmˈpænjənʃɪp/ (noun): The state of being with someone and enjoying their company.
   Example: “Pets provide invaluable companionship to many people.”

3. To adopt – /əˈdɒpt/ (verb): To take an animal into one’s home to care for and treat as a pet.
   Example: “We decided to adopt a rescue dog from the local shelter.”

4. Bonding ritual – /ˈbɒndɪŋ ˈrɪtʃuəl/ (noun phrase): A regular activity that strengthens the emotional connection between individuals.
   Example: “Our evening walks became a bonding ritual for me and my dog.”

5. Uncanny ability – /ʌnˈkæni əˈbɪləti/ (adjective phrase): An extraordinary or mysterious talent or capacity.
   Example: “Cats have an uncanny ability to sense their owners’ emotions.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing pets:

1. Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to make your pet come alive in the examiner’s mind.
2. Incorporate personal anecdotes to demonstrate your ability to narrate experiences fluently.
3. Practice speaking about your pet (or a hypothetical pet) for 2 minutes without pausing or repeating yourself excessively.
4. Prepare to discuss broader topics related to pets, such as animal welfare or the impact of pets on society.
5. Work on your pronunciation and intonation to ensure your enthusiasm for your pet comes across naturally.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your thoughts clearly are crucial factors in achieving a high score.

Describe an experience you had with a wild animal could be another interesting topic to prepare for, as it allows you to showcase your vocabulary related to nature and wildlife encounters. By practicing a range of animal-related topics, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever question comes your way in the IELTS Speaking test.