News
From Pets of Namibia
PETS OF NAMIBIA NEWS LETTER 2007
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE TAKING HOME A NEW PET:
it can happen to all of us. you see a cute,tiger striped kitten with wit paws and green eyes, just begging for attention. or maybe it's a gorgeous Labrador mix whose tail seems to be wagging just for you. You take one look, and the next thing you are walking down the pet food isle buying pet food and toys.
if you are like most of us, falling in love with a pet is easy. And no wonder! sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest joys. dogs,cats and other pets give us unconditional loyalty and acceptance, provide constant companionship, and even help relieve stress after a hard days work.
adopting a pet, though, is a big decision. Dogs and Cats require lots of time,money and commitment-over 15 years worth in many cases. pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you take home that companion.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
The fact that you are thinking of taking home a pet means you are a responsible and caring person. But before you make your final decision, take a moment to think over these questions:
WHY DO YOU WANT A PET?
It's amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this question, before you get a pet. adopting a pet just because it's"the thing to do" or because the kids have been asking for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. not forgetting pets may be with you 10,15 even 20 years.
DO YOU HAVE TIME FOR A PET?
Dogs,Cats and other companions cannot be ignored just because you are tired or busy. they require food,water, exercise, care and companionship every day of the year. many animals end up at shelters because people did not realize how much time it took to care for them.
CAN YOU AFFORD A PET?
The cost to pets are no different to children, and can be quite high. licenses, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, vaccinations,toys,food,kitty litter and many more. expenses add up quickly.
ARE YOU PREPARED TO DEAL WITH SPECIAL PROBLEMS THAT A PET CAN CAUSE?
tick and flea infestation, scratched and chewed up furniture, accidents from animals not house trained, unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership.
CAN YOU HAVE A PET WHERE YOU LIVE?
many rental agencies do not allow pets. Make sure you know the restrictions before you consider a pet?
IS IT A GOOD TIME FOR A NEW PET?
If you are a student, travel frequently, or have children under the age of six years of age it would be wise to wait until you settle down, or the children are mature enough to be responsible.
ARE YOUR LIVING ARRANGEMENTS SUITABLE FOR THE ANIMALS YOU HAVE IN MIND?
It's not really the size of the animal you take. For example terrier type dogs (Jackrussels) are very active dogs and bark a lot, they need plenty of exercise to keep them calm. On the other hand some big dogs are laid back and quite happy to sleep on the coach all day. Before adopting a pet make sure he will fit into your busy schedule.
WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR PET WHEN YOU GO ON HOLIDAY?
you'll need reliable friends and neighbors or consider boarding your pet at kennels or pet-sitting services.
FINALLY, ARE YOU PREPARED TO KEEP AND CARE FOR THE PET FOR HIS ENTIRE LIFE TIME?
When adopting a pet you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his entire life time.
GET AN PET FOR LIFE:
Sure, it's a long list of questions. but a quick visit to your nearest animal shelter will help you understand why. Many homeless animals at shelters are puppies and kittens, victims of irresponsible people who allow their pets to breed. There are a large amount of unwanted older pets at shelters, who were obtained by people who did not think through the responsibility of pet ownership before the got the pets.
NEVER LEAVE ANY CHILD alone with an animal, even if you think you know the animal very well.
Animals can go through hormonal changes just like us. and children are not always aware of dangers or even know how to treat an animal. Always socialize your pet, it is unpleasant for you and your pet if it is not used to other animals,people, children, cars and your vet.
A man wrote a letter to a small hotel in a Midwest town he planned to visit on his vacation.
He wrote: "I would very much like to bring my dog with me. He is well-groomed and very well behaved. Would you be willing to permit me to keep him in my room with me at night?"
An immediate reply came from the hotel owner, who wrote:
"I've been operating this hotel for many years.
In all that time,
I've never had a dog steal towls, bedclothes, silverware or pictures off the walls.
I've never had to evict a dog in the middle of the night for being drunk and disorderly.
I've never had a dog run out on a hotel bill.
Yes indeed, your dog is welcome at my hotel.
And, if your dog can vouch for you, you're welcome to stay here, too."
