A Loving Companion
Bunnies, chicks, kittens and puppies are cute for Easter “basket” gifts for children (and adults) but remember….they grow up to be rabbits, ducks, cats and dogs and require time, attention, cost and care. So before you think of the delight in a loved one’s eye when that cute little animal is “unwrapped”, make sure you’ve put some thought into it.
Baby animals are going to require more attention than older animals. If you’re gone all day and the kids are at school, who’s going to keep an eye on the puppy that wants to chew and needs more frequent bathroom outings? Kittens usually have their claws and will want to scratch…do you have young children that a kitten could unintentionally hurt? I love animals and am not trying to talk you out of getting a pet for the house (I can’t imagine NOT having a pet) but I’ve known people who fell in love with a puppy, didn’t think about their time at home, the puppy chews everything up in the house or yard and then they got rid of the dog after it was “uncontrollable”. For some families, an older pet might be a better choice and they have just as much love to offer as a baby (and they’ve passed that chewing phase!)
Before you decide on a pet, think about the size of your home, your lifestyle, the cost of food and vet care, the ages and temperament of those living in your house and what type of animal best “fits” your family. And then why not visit the Humane Society or other shelters in your area and get your pet there? I have had four cats we got from the Humane Society and a dog….almost everyone I know who owns a dog got it from the Humane Society and each and every one of them have been great pets, providing lots of love and laughs to their owners.
Adopt a Rescue Pet
The last time I checked the local Humane Society here, they had rabbits, hamsters, a turtle, guinea pigs, and of course plenty of kittens, puppies, cats and dogs. The prices range from $10 to $300 to adopt, depending on the age and breed. And when you adopt a pet from the Humane Society, the package includes a spray or neuter surgery, a voucher for a vet exam, vaccinations and a one year license (among other things).
Pets offer companionship and love and are loyal and true. If you’re going to get a pet, again, think of their needs over how cute you think they are and then check out the shelters and adopt….
Visit hsppr.org and check out what animals are up for adoption, the cost and questions to ask yourself before committing to a new pet….