Pet Care: Beyond Food And Shelter
(Page 2 of 3)
January/February 1990
By Randy Kidd, D.V.M.
In other words, it's no easy task for an animal to become an acceptable member of our human community. But for our sake and theirs, pets absolutely need to become good citizens of the neighborhoods we bring them into. And it's up to us, as responsible pet owners, to work long enough and hard enough-and with utmost patience-to help them. You'll find that dog obedience classes are available in virtually every community and that most public libraries are well stocked with excellent how-to books on training pets.
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Birth Control
Every year between 13 and 18 million dogs and cats are euthanized. The vast majority of these ill-fated, unwanted animals are the offspring of domestic pets.
The only solution to this ongoing travesty is for all pet owners to acknowledge, and follow through on, the absolute need to have their animals spayed or neutered. No pet should be brought into this world without a guaranteed home. Don't let your pets-male or female-breed figuring maybe you'll be able to sell the litter or give away the progeny to someone (anyone, please!).
If you're considering getting a pet, don't forget it will be your responsibility to have that animal spayed or neutered.
Physical and Emotional Care
American pets as a whole are overweight and underexercised. A sound diet and a daily exercise regimen are just as important to your pet's overall well-being as they are to your own. Neither should be neglected.
Also, remember that caring for an animal means spending money. Most people acknowledge the importance of routine medical care for pets-such as an annual physical -but when the time comes many are surprised at the cost.
I tell folks who are thinking about getting a dog that they should count on spending about $100 a year for ordinary veterinary care alone. This does not take into account expenses that might be incurred from serious injuries or ailments, nor does it include the cost of food, a doghouse, or any of the frills, such as hair trims or play toys. Average annual medical fees for a cat may be a little less-but often not much less. I tell people that if $100 a year would put a burden on their budget, they should reconsider having a dog or cat for now, or perhaps think about getting one of the less costly pets, such as a small bird or a hamster.
