Please Note: One of the most
comprehensive libraries of pet related questions
and answers has been prepared by the American Animal Hospital
Association. We have included direct links to specific
animal pages.
The links will open a new browser window and
take
you to
the questions and answers contained
on
the
AAHA web
site. Of course, the best answer always comes from your
Vet who will take the time to properly diagnose your pet.
Pets are popular
because they provide companionship, joy, unconditional
love, a sense of safety, and often a service. These are
probably some of the reasons why you're thinking about
getting a pet. Animals are fun to be with every day.
They make us feel good!
Your pet-owning experience will be most enjoyable if you
take the time to consider which animal best suits your
family. You can start by answering some easy questions
and gathering sound information and advice. This process
won't take long and it will be educational and fun, particularly
for children.
Select your pet the best way--the way recommended by veterinarians.
A pet will become your daily responsibility, so make an
informed pet selection. Don't let the playful antics of
the first puppy, kitten, or bird you see or the latest
status-symbol pet charm you into accepting a responsibility
for which you and your family are not prepared.
You've read articles about the millions of unwanted pets
that have to be put to death each year. Pets selected
on impulse, "for the children," or as a gift
during the holidays sometimes end up this way. These
pets once
belonged to people who fell in love--and then changed
their minds.
Selecting a pet should be a family project with everyone's
needs, concerns, fears, and medical history (including
allergies) considered. Family members should decide together
what kind of animal they want, the amount of time they
anticipate spending with it, and the amount of responsibility
each person is willing to assume. Be realistic. Promises
from some family members, particularly children, may not
be fulfilled.
Your goal is to identify the best animal(s) for your living
space, lifestyle, and budget. Take time, involve the family,
and answer the following questions.
Do You Have Room for a Pet?
Active dogs need more space and more daily exercise than
older or more sedentary dogs. Some pets may get enough
exercise within the confines of a house or apartment.
For their own safety, dogs and cats should not be allowed
to run uncontrolled, but should be walked on a leash
or exercised in an enclosed area. Most animals are better
kept indoors or in a suitable kennel while you're gone.
Cats, birds, and small mammals can adapt to any size
living quarters.
What Activities Do You Enjoy?
You and your family should discuss the reasons you want
a companion animal and what you expect an animal to do
with and for you. Most people keep pets as companions,
whereas others enjoy animals for showing, breeding, hunting,
or other reasons. Will the animal you're considering
have the temperament and physical attributes to participate
in your outdoor activities (hiking, hunting, or camping)
or in quiet pastimes at home? If your leisure activities
take you away from home, who will care for your pet during
your absences? Read about the temperaments and needs
of species and breeds, and identify those that best match
your lifestyle.
How Do You Spend Your Day?
Pets depend on people for daily affection and attention.
Young puppies and kittens require time for housebreaking,
training, and feeding. Are you gone all day? Do you frequently
work late? What will you do with your pet during long
absences? Feeding, exercise, grooming, and play are daily
time commitments that must be considered in caring for
a healthy, happy pet.
Do You Have a No-Pets Clause?
Most rental agreement no-pets clauses apply only to dogs
and cats; birds or small mammals may be acceptable. If
you want a dog or cat but your lease or condominium association
rules prohibit them, ask that the no-pets clause be waived
or negotiated. Outline your plan to care for your pet,
to adapt to your living environment, and to meet your
landlord's expectations. Assure your association leaders
that you are a responsible pet owner who is aware of
the importance of a well-behaved animal and a clean environment.
Furnish references from previous landlords or neighbors.
Agree in writing to pay a refundable deposit or a small
monthly surcharge.
How Much Will Your Pet Cost?
The purchase price of an animal varies greatly. All pets
need food and shelter, and most should have regular visits
to a veterinarian for health checkups and vaccinations.
Depending on the type of animal you choose, other cost
considerations include emergency medical treatment, grooming,
boarding, licensing, obedience training, and accessories.
Pet health insurance for unexpected illnesses or injuries
is available in many states.
What If a Pet Doesn't Fit Your Lifestyle?
After discussing the role a pet will play in your life
and talking with knowledgeable people, you may conclude
that your first choice for a pet is not appropriate,
so be flexible. Your veterinarian may suggest other companion
animals whose needs more closely match your own.
You can still enjoy the animals around you if a pet does
not fit into your present lifestyle. Try putting a bird
feeder outside your window or becoming an active member
of a local zoologic society. Volunteer at a humane society
or animal shelter. Consider a pet when your circumstances
change.
Veterinarians and Other Community Resources
When your family decides it's time to actually look for
a pet, each person should participate in the selection
process. A good place to start is a family consultation
with a veterinarian to determine the compatibility of
your needs with those of the animal(s) being considered.
Veterinarians can offer expert advice on the physical
needs, health, and behavioral characteristics of particular
animals, and can direct you to other resources.
Other good sources of guidance and literature on pets include
public libraries, humane societies, animal shelters, animal
control agencies, breeders, pet stores, obedience classes,
and local kennel, cat, and bird clubs. Dog and cat shows
offer the advantage of comparing many breeds at one time.
A Check-up for Your New Companion
The neighbor, breeder, shelter, or pet store where you
obtain your pet should allow you to have the animal examined
by a veterinarian and to return it within an agreed-upon
time if the animal is unhealthy. Do this as soon as possible,
before you become emotionally attached to the animal.
Your veterinarian is best qualified to assure you that
your new friend is healthy and to administer the necessary
vaccinations. At the same time, you can discuss proper
nutrition and feeding, surgical sterilization, other preventive
health measures, and grooming needs.
Prepare Your Home for Your Pet's Arrival
Before bringing a pet into your home, prepare a special
place for it to eat and sleep. At first, try to maintain
the animal's daily schedule for play, eating, and elimination.
Decide where you will exercise your pet. Obtain any necessary
accessories (such as collar and ID tag, leash, scratching
post, litter box, crate, bird cage, etc.) before you
bring your pet home. You should pet-proof your home just
as you would child-proof your home to avoid accidents.
Harmful cleansers, plants, electrical cords, and breakable
objects should be removed from potential contact with
your pet. What will you do with your pet during long
absences? Feeding, exercise, grooming, and play are daily
time commitments that must be considered in caring for
a healthy, happy pet.
Top of Page
Mon & Thur:
8-8 | Tue, Wed, & Fri: 8-6 | Sat: 8-Noon | Tel:
543-4247
|
