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Tag: animal shelters

Adopting a Dog – EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Written by Colleen Sedgwick. Posted in Pet tip of the Week.

There are a lot of misconceptions about adopting a dog these days… People hear of overloaded shelters and think that the volunteers will be happy to see them coming. They are happy to see you coming, but that doesn’t mean that you just walk in, grab your choice of pet and walk out. It’s important to the volunteers that pets that leave shelters are going to forever homes. They don’t want to see the same pet returned because the owner wasn’t prepared for the experience. So here are some things you need to know before you take that big step!

The Cost

Dogs cost more than a bag of food every so often. Make sure you are financially prepared for long-term pet ownership. Here are some cost you need to consider:

  • Adoption Fee
  • Vaccinations
  • Flea/Tick/Heartworm prevention
  • Grooming
  • Pet Sitting or Kennel Costs if your away
  • Food/Toys/Bed/Leash/Collar
  • Emergency Care

…before you go adopting

  • Is your lifestyle fit for a pet? Are you away most of the day? Travel a lot?
  • Is your home suited for a dog? if so, what size? If you rent, are pets allowed?
  • Are you prepared for dealing with potential barking, chewing, or bathroom accidents? Are you dedicated enough to train them, or have them trained?
  • Are you committed for the long-term?

The Adoption Process

If you’ve decided that you’re ready for that new dog you need to be familiar with the process of adopting. There is an adoption fee. Many people think if they’re going to a shelter instead of a breeder or pet shot the pet will be free. Not so. There is an adoption fee. This fee often helps the shelter cover spaying/neutering and care costs. Fee’s vary, so ask your shelter if your are concerned. Adoption paperwork will be required too and you should be prepared to answer some questions. Many shelters will inquire about these things:

  • Your income level
  • Your living situation (rent vs own, apartment, ect)
  • Your available free time daily for your pet
  • If you have a vet
  • Who will care for the pet when you travel

These questions are asked to ensure that you have thought about these things and aren’t making an impulse buy. They also give the shelter managers the ability to assess whether or not the dog is going to a good home. Shelters don’t want to just place dogs. They want to make sure these dogs are getting the homes they deserve.

This amazing infographic is your quick reference guide to pet adoption. Print it out and go over it with your family! For more information, check out this site: http://www.gapnsw.com.au/2016/09/09/ultimate-guide-dog-adoption/

photo credit: pit Bull x Siberian Husky via photopin (license)

Happy National Pet Day 2013

Written by Colleen Sedgwick. Posted in Health and Safety, Pet Nanny news.

Today, April 11th, is recognized nationally as Happy National Pet Day! While this is a celebration of our beloved pets, being it furry or feline, reptilian, etc., us pet lovers hold a special place in our hearts for our pet family members. Hence, this is another day to spoil our pets rotten! On the other hand, this day is a solid reminder that we need to encourage our pets with the best care, toys and treats. National Pet Day is also a friendly reminder to adopt your pet from your local animal shelter, not buy them from a pet store or breeder.

This day was founded by Celebrity Pet Lifestyle Expert & Animal Welfare Advocate, Colleen Paige, who has also founded National Dog Day, along with National Cat Day. This day is also to shed light on the harsh fact that over 16,000 pets die in U.S. shelters every day (heartbreaking!), which translates to more than 667 sweet pets breathing their final breath.

These precious animals need us and need our voice. Please head on over to www.petdayusa.com for more ways to become involved and how can donate time and money.

Also, share your pet pictures with us to show your appreciation for pet day, and they’ll be featured on either Pet Nanny Main Line or our sister site, Pet Watchman.

What are you doing to help out on National Pet Day?

Source: http://www.cuinsight.com/press-release/celebrate-national-pet-day-2013-while-saving-money-at-the-same-time.html

http://www.petdayusa.com

What Will They Think of Next?

Written by Colleen Sedgwick. Posted in Health and Safety, Pet Nanny news.

 

An organization in New York is currently developing a pet food stamp program, and it’s intentions will be to help pet owners who are unable to afford support for their animal friends.

Pet Food Stamps website states that” The Pet Food Stamps program has been created to fill the void in the United States Food Stamp program which excludes the purchase of pet food and pet supplies. In these rough economic times, many pet owners are forced to abandon their beloved pet to the ASPCA, North Shore Animal League or other animal shelters due to the inability to pay for their basic food supply and care.”

What do you think of this new development:

  • Love it
  • Meh
  • Why pet food stamps?

Let us know in the comment section below. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

Read more:

http://dailycaller.com/2013/02/24/scooby-snaps-new-mexico-organization-offers-pet-food-stamps/