Pet Ower Tips

Is that kitty really free?

Now I know that everywhere you go you have seen free kitty signs. So, you may not have adopted a cat from a shelter because of the fees, but keep in mind that no kitty is free! Your new family member will have to see a veterinarian for a check up, shots and to be spayed or neutered…oh let’s not forget about food, toys, litter and a litter box. Ok you might not think that all of these things are necessary, but they are for your cat to have a safe and healthy life. Sure you can always find another free kitty (which is unfortunate), but that’s not the right mindset for a responsible pet owner. Being a responsible pet owner means that you be willing do anything to make sure that your pet is safe, happy and healthy.

Owning a cat is sometimes a challenge, with them being so independent and curious. But the love you’ll receive is worth every penny and every sleepless night because your bed is your kitty’s personal racetrack. Now nothing says I love you more then having your toes attacked through your covers by your cat while you sleep. Remember that your cat will need items like a scratching post to help save your furniture, toys to play with to save your toes, and don’t forget a clean litter box to save your plants! Ok, now your thinking that your cat will live outside…that solves nothing when it comes to being responsible. A responsible pet owner will not let their cat run loose to become a terrorist to the neighborhood. Not everyone likes cats and it is legal to trap cats on your own property and turn them into your local shelter. It is illegal to kill, injure, poison, or trap and release a cat out in the country. So be responsible, don’t let your cat wonder. One way to reduce wondering is to have your cat spayed or neutered. That means that females can’t have babies and a male won’t be able to make babies. No it does not really change their personalities except to make them less likely to roam, reduces fighting and normally stops male cats from spraying. Now to me that sounds like something that your neighbors will love! I know that kittens are cute, but there are too many unwanted animals sitting in shelters waiting for a new loving home. For most that home will never come and they will be put to sleep to make room for the incoming box loads that come everyday. So if you’re going to be a cat owner, please be responsible! If you want your kids to experience the miracle of life, become a volunteer at your local shelter. Many shelters run a foster care program, where animals are placed into loving homes until a permanent home can be found. That way both you and your family can experience the miracle of life without adding to the pet over population problem and sentencing other countless numbers to death.

Now remember that the next time you’re thinking about getting a cat, think about an adoption…which means to save a life!

Do you have any tips for Halloween?

Please make sure that your dogs and cats are contained in a safe and comfortable area while trick-or-treaters are visiting you. Animals can be easily frightened by sounds and costumes on this night. If your pet is in an area where children may be able to approach, make sure you keep a close eye on your pet, it only takes a second for a bite to occur. Even the mildest tempered pet can react from fear. If you will be taking out trick or treaters, explain why it is unsafe to approach any strange animal. Also remind your children that candy should not be given to animals. If you know kids that will be visiting that have pets, send a treat home to Fido. A nice pet toy, or a bag of doggie bones is a nice touch. Have a fun and safe Halloween!