Features
A puppy for Christmas? Resist the urge
Special to the News-Capital
While that cute puppy is a tempting Christmas present, remember that having a pet is a commitment that lasts for many years. Nationally, most pets will lose their home before they turn one year and only one dog in five will remain in one home for life. It is a bad example for children to see a pet as a disposable item that is gotten at Christmas and is “gotten rid of” a few months later when it becomes inconvenient. For adult animals that lose their homes in our region, a permanent home is unlikely.
If you rent your home make sure you are permitted to have a bet before you bring the animal home. Find out if an additional deposit is required. Consider the costs and who will actually take care of the pet. Unsupervised children under the age of 12 should not be in charge of caring for pets. Relying on children can result in your pet unintentionally being neglected. Do you have the time to oversee the daily care of the animal? Pet care is not just a weekend chore.
If you get a pet during the holidays, experts recommend bringing a pet home a couple of days after Christmas. The excitement of holidays can be hard on baby animals. Make sure the animal will continue to fit your lifestyle and consider how big the pet will get. The large dog that you no longer want in the house started out as a cute puppy.
All of us can do our part to make Oklahoma communities stronger. Responsible pet care means keeping pets from roaming. It also means keeping vaccinations current. Having your pets spayed or neutered will help prevent the births of numerous unwanted puppies and kittens. More than 75 percent of dog bites and the overwhelming majority of complaints made to law enforcement officials regarding animals involve intact animals (pets that are not spayed or neutered). Dogs that remain on chains or isolated away from people in a pen are also involved in many serious bites. Dogs need to be part of your family. Be a responsible neighbor; make sure your pet is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and socialized.
As we close out this year, remember that there are many unwanted pets waiting for a loving family to adopt them. If you are one of those loving families, check out the Pittsburg County Animal Shelter or your local veterinarian. You can also call PAWS. There is a pet waiting for you.
For information on the spay and neuter program for low-income families, call PAWS at 470-7297 to see if you qualify. There is also a “special” FREE spay or neuter for a dog weighing 35 pounds or more and a family income of $35,000 or less.
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