Pet Care
Giving Up Your Pet?
We love him, but…
He's too big…or too noisy…or we can't afford him. There
are dozens of reasons why people give up their pets. Most common reasons have easy solutions. It just takes some time, thought and effort.
We're moving out of town…
An animal is a lifetime responsibility. Have you ruled out every possibility of taking your pet with you? A pet can adapt to new places faster than you might think, as long
as you, are there.
My wife, husband or child has allergies…
Think back a bit. Could the sneezing have started before you brought your dog or cat home? Have you seen an allergist to find out if your pet is the problem?
Now that's he's older, the kids have lost interest…
Most parents agree that the best way for children to learn about responsibility is by teaching them to care for a pet. Ask yourself the following question: Is abandoning your pet because it is not as convenient or as cute as it used to be a good example for your children? Children need to realize that pets are living, needing creatures that should not be cast off like old toys. A pet is a friend for life.
He can't be house-trained...
House-training your dog or cat takes time and patience. Have you given enough of both? Is there anyone home with your pet during the day? When you are away from home, isolate your dog or cat in a less “delicate” area of your home (such as the laundry room, workshop, or mudroom), and make sure that essentials such as food, water and kitty litter are always accessible. Has everyone in your family taken the time to learn the same house-training methods, or could your pet be confused by different signals? Contact your veterinarian for behaviour counselling or referral to a specialist.
We don't have time for him anymore...
Many people feel there isn't enough time in the day to do everything that needs to be done, but when you made the decision to adopt a pet, you made a lifelong commitment to take care of this animal. Spending a little time each day with your pet can actually help take your mind off your problems. Walking your dog or grooming your cat is a great way to relax and relieve stress. Watching your pet enjoy the attention is well worth the effort!
We have a new baby...
Congratulations! When properly introduced, your cat or dog will most likely become one of your child's lifelong friends. Your pet will also provide comfort and companionship. Human infants usually evoke gentler responses from animals, and especially from dogs because of their social nature. By involving your baby and your pet in experiences your pet enjoys, such as walk time, you will make your pet's adjustment to the new baby much easier.
He runs away all the time...
Is your pet spayed or neutered? If not, he or she is more likely to wander. Is your pet being exercised regularly? Dogs need to be walked or to exercise every day to use up all their exuberant energy! Taking the time to teach your dog proper commands, either by yourself or with the assistance of a professional dog trainer, will keep him by your side. Is your backyard properly fenced? If you own a cat, have you considered keeping it inside at all times? That will stop it from wandering!
The neighbours are complaining...
When you take your dog for a walk, do you "stoop and scoop" the “gifts” your dog leaves behind as you pass your neighbour's lawn? Excessive barking or scratching could be a result of boredom. Have you been spending enough time with your pet doing exciting activities? Most problems can be solved by providing alternatives and gentle training.
Remember, your pet depends on you, and needs and deserves an
investment of time and money!
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