Adopting A Pet

Awwwwww! They're so cute!!!!

And they are! But it's important to understand what is involved in that cute cuddly creature you want to take home. Most of us old "softies" want nothing more than to provide a good home for an unwanted pet (or even the wanted ones!). This is good!! And the more, the better! There's just a few things to think about and plan for with that new family member.

• That precious baby will grow into an adult in a very short time
• Will the one you're planning to take home fit your lifestyle and/or the other part of your family?
• Are you prepared to provide proper care including house training, daily feed and watering, and veterinary care?
• Will you arrange to have your new pet spayed or neutered?

If you answered "YES" to all those questions, Congratulations on the adoption of your new family member!!

Here are some key tips to guide you on your way:

• Veterinary Exam - Have your new pet examined as soon as possible! This is especially important if you have another pet at home in order to help prevent or minimize transmission of disease. A schedule for vaccinations can be set up at this time also. Make sure all your current pets are up to date with their vaccinations as well. It might be a good idea to keep you new pet apart from the others for a minimum of one week to prevent the possibility of disease transmission or in case your new pet is incubating a contagious disease.
  
  
• Socialization - First impressions are important to pets. Be patient. It may take a week or 2 for your new pet to become comfortable with its new surroundings and the other pets you may have. In the beginning, briefly interact with the new pet associated with tidbits and petting. If there is an aggresive reaction to your other animals in the home, just separate them but never punish either pet. Time will take care of it for you.
  
  
• License Requirements - Make sure your pet complies with any animal regulations of your City, County, or State.
  
  
• Crates - An invaluable tool to aid you in house training and preventing destructive behavior in dogs. Gradually introduce the dog to the crate and it will be become his bed and "safe haven"
  
  
• Proper Nutrition - This will improve the quality and vitality of your pet's life. Buy the best. Pet food comes in a wide variety of brands and styles. Your vet can assist you in the proper diet for proper nutrition. Key advice to remember: (1) NEVER feed your pet food that is intended for humans (2) Provide plenty of clean, fresh water at all times (3) When you clean your pets food and water dishes, be sure all soap residue has been rinsed away.
  
  
• Grooming - Try to brush your pet everyday. It stimulates the glands just below the skin's surface to produce oils that maintain a glossy coat as well as prevent problems of excessive shedding, skin and paw disorders, and painful mats. While you do this you can also look for lumps, rashes, or external parasites. Be sure to report any abnormalities to your vet.
  
  
• Excercise - Exercise increases energy, promotes muscle development and improves cardiovascular fitness about the same as in humans. It also reduces boredom and may save you problems that are waiting to happen to shoes, furniture, and other household items. There are a variety of toys that promote mental alertness and excercise for your pet. DO NOT let your cat play with string or a ball of yarn without your constant supervision. As cute as it is, these items can be eaten and become lodged in the pet's intestinal tract resulting in serous illness or even death.
  
  
• Environment - Use good judgement before allowing your pet outdoors without a leash. Most dogs love to play outdoors. Unfortunately, their curiosity can get them into trouble. Be sure you have a secure, fenced yard where he can't get out. If you have no fence, set a daily schedule to walk your dog (at least twice a day) on a leash.
  
  You can have potentially dangerous items around your home as well. Avoid puddles of anti-freeze. It is sweet but highly toxic to your pet. Over the counter medicines such as Tylenol, Excedrin, Datril, and more are hazardous to your pet and can result in liver damage. Even the common food, onions, can be hazardous to your pet.
  
  
• House Training - BE PATIENT! Kittens are easy but dogs will require a little more time. Using the crate menioned above will be very helpful but remember dogs don't like to go to the bathroom in the same place they eat or sleep. Find one place outside and always take him to that place while training. Most puppies need to go to the bathroom a few minutes after they eat or upon waking up from a nap. NEVER discipline your dog if you do not catch him in the act. He won't understand. When he goes in the designated area, be sure to lavish him with pets and praise! Learn to watch for the tell-tale body signs your pet will have when he needs to go. Above all - Be Patient!
  
  

We know you'll love your new pet!