Do not give animals as a gift! While this might seem like a great idea, the perfect pet is a matter of personal taste. Sadly, shelters are often the end recipient of these animals. Instead, pick up a gift certificate from one of the shelters or make a gift card for a pet, be creative. Then, together you can come and find the perfect addition to your lives.
Bring your dog/puppy to Obedience Training! Most dogs that come to a shelter have little or no obedience training. Often these dogs are surrendered because of "behavioral" problems. A trained dog is a happy dog, and the owner of a trained dog is an even happier person. Learn how to redirect Fido's chewing or digging habit, how to teach him not to jump up on people. A little training goes a long way, and makes for a happier family. Classes are available all around you, check with your local animal shelter, pet store, or community education department, as well as the obvious yellow pages.
Spay or Neuter your pet! The unfortunate truth is that there are millions of homeless animals in the country today. Many of these animals will have to be destroyed. Do not contribute to this overpopulation. I know there are many guys out there that cringe at the thought of having their male pet "snipped". But honestly it is in everyone's best interest, including your pet's!. Early spay/neuters helps to prevent certain types of cancer, helps to eliminate dog's roaming instinct, and helps to prevent the spraying or marking instinct. For a bit more information, here is a link to the spay/neuter page on the MVHS website
A lifetime commitment! Fluffy and Fido can live to be 20 years or older, and that cute little bunny 8-12 years old. Think carefully about where you will be in 2 years, 10 years, 20 years. Will you be moving into an apartment or townhouse? Are you willing to work hard to find one that will accept pets? Are you willing to pay more rent in order to keep your pet? Unfortunately many apartments are now charging a monthly rent for pets, if they are willing to accept them at all. Also many townhouse/condominium associations are not allowing pets, even if you own your own place. This can make things difficult for pet owners (I speak from experience) who wish to relocate to a different area.
Do not try to sneak an animal in! Many people have the mistaken assumption that no one will know if they have a quiet cat in their apartment. The truth of the matter is - you will always be found out, and then forced to get rid of the animal. There are often maintenance emergencies that arise. This gives the landlord the right to enter your apartment without notice. Even if it is not an emergency, very often the maintenance people in apartments "forget" to call to tell you they will be coming.
Keep your cat indoors! The average life of an outdoor cat is only one and a half years. You are not doing your cat a favor by letting it roam the neighborhood. Instead you are subjecting it to all kinds of unneccessary dangers and are being discourteous to your neighbors. The obvious dangers are cars, not only under the tires, but cats love to climb into a warm engine on a cold day, as well as the anifreeze that might drip from someone's car. There are a vast number of parasites and diseases that are also a huge threat. I saw my first case of Cuterebra last year, I had never heard of it before, and found out it is much more common than I would have thought, especially with young outdoor animals.
Donate and Volunteer! Shelters are always in need of supplies. If you love to shop like I do, find out what they need and donate it to the shelter. If shopping isn't your thing, they will gladly accept your money too! Shelters are always in need of volunteers! Become a dog walker, phone answerer, pet adoption counselor, help out at local events. Prefer to remain behind the scenes? Maybe you are allergic to animals? Often shelters have tons of paper related things that need to be done, just ask! Think you don't have enough time? Usually the time comittment is minimal, and you are asked is to work just a few hours a month. I find it to be a very rewarding experience and walk out of the shelter smiling every time I'm there. No, I cannot save every animal, but I celebrate every single one that we send to a loving home!
