Holiday Pets as Gifts

Since joining social media groups like Twitter(combined with the awareness of our Pets in Need Clinic )I have been bombarded with requests to provide free spay/neuter and or find home for unwanted kittens and puppies as well as older pets.

Evey year I appeal to people considering pets as holiday gifts to think seriously about this before welcoming a new companion to your home.

1. Consider this a long term commitment..cats are living well into their late teens and dogs depending on breed almost as long. Please consider what happens to your pet if your are financially unable to continue it's care or should the situation arise, cover fees for an emergency.
http://www.aspca.org/about-us/faq/pet-statistics.html

Statistics show on average people pay $750.00 to $1000.00 for dogs in the first 12 months and slightly less for cats.

2. Is the new pet for you or someone else? If the latter does that special someone also share your commitment and desire to become a guardian??
3. Avoid impulse buying from pet stores. Pet stores notoriously market in puppy mill dogs.http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/puppy-mills/
If you desire a purebred dog, do your homework, ask questions and locate "reputable breeders", and do not buy online

6.Investigate rescue organizations for animals that are in desperate need of homes before buying. You just may find one companion that tugs at your heart.