In Hope, An Animal Shelter Story
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In Hope, An Animal Shelter Story
As a nation, we claim to love cats and dogs. Millions of households have pets, and billions of dollars are spent yearly on pet supplies and food. But as a nation, we should take a hard, sobering look at a different annual statistic: the millions of dogs and cats given up to shelters or left to die on the streets. And the numbers tell only half the story. Every cat or dog who dies as a result of pet overpopulation — whether humanely in a shelter or by injury, disease, or neglect — is an animal who, more often than not, would have made a wonderful companion, if given the chance. Tremendous as the problem of pet overpopulation is, it can be solved if each of us takes just one small step, starting with not allowing our animals to breed. Here's information about this crisis and why spaying and neutering is the first step to a solution. Thinking of having a pet? Ask yourself the following questions: 1. Are you ready to make a commitment to a pet for its entire life? Adding a companion animal to the family is a big responsibility. Adopting an animal is not unlike adopting a child, in that it means making a permanent commitment to care for and spend time with the animal. Before adopting, consider the time and money involved. Will someone have the time and patience to exercise and housebreak your new pet? Are you prepared to pay for a balanced diet, accessories (such as toys and a brush), vaccinations, veterinary treatment or emergency care? 2. Will other pets in your home get along with a new one? 3. If you go on vacation, who will take care of your pet? Your best bet is to select someone you know personally, such as a friend or relative. If this is not possible you may want to check out an outside sitter such as a kennel or a private company. If you choose to use an outside sitter, here are some basic helpful tips: Check references carefully . The Singapore SPCA will gladly recommend reputable kennel/cattery care facilities. Meet the sitter in advance and ask them questions about companion animals and their care Leave your telephone numbers, that of your friend or relative, and that of your vet. 4. Do you have the patience and discipline for house-training a puppy? Housetraining a dog takes patience and time (and some good humour helps, too!). With understanding, a regular schedule of feedings and "bathroom breaks," and careful attention to the dog's body language, housetraining a dog can be a breeze. You establish a routine the day you bring your puppy home. Take him outside first thing in the morning or immediately after napping, and right before bedtime (puppies, with their small bladders, often can't make it through the night without having to relieve themselves).
YouTube | February 16, 2009
