Your generosity has been unstoppable. Paris, our chihuahua, underwent surgery to correct a birth defect which prevented her from using her front legs.

> Read more about Paris.

Animal Law Enforcement

Volunteer Orientation

Current Opportunities

Questions to Consider

Making the big decision to adopt a new pet deserves some research. Consider the following questions:

What is a proper diet?
What vaccinations are needed?
How will you prevent illness?
What training programs are indicated?
Do you need pet insurance?
What will you do if the new family member develops health problems?
Are you really prepared to care for a cat with feline leukemia virus or a dog with separation anxiety?

There are hundreds of books written on pet care, and the internet is a growing source of information. Your best all around source for pets and their care is your veterinarian.

> Local Veterinarians

Are you ready for a new pet?

Consult everyone involved and make a good lifestyle fit.

Consult with all of the members of your family before deciding on a new pet. You may discover that due to your lifestyle, an adult dog or cat is a better choice for your family than a puppy or kitten.

There is nothing to compare to the joy and contentment of sharing your life with a pet that fits your life style. An improper fit can lead to suffering by you or your pet with the tragic results of broken bonds. Get off to the right start. Make this decision a family decision, and be sure you are financially and physically able to care for your new pet before you make a commitment.

Supplies

Organize a supply list - things you will need before the pet enters your household. An example of good planning would be to provide one litter pan for each cat in the household plus one extra litter pan. Behavior experts recommend this because it increases the chance a cat will find a clean litter pan when the need arises, therefore avoiding stress and accidents.

Food

Another example of thoughtful planning is to have the appropriate diet available for your new pet. Today, with the barrage of excellent pet foods available, even experts have difficulty deciding which food is best.

Pet-Proof your Home

When left unsupervised, your pet is likely to chew, dig, scratch or eliminate on anything accessible. These are normal pet behaviors. You will want to designate a "pet-safe zone" in your home - an area where you can safely confine your pet when it must be left alone.

Perhaps you might consider using a pet daycare facility. Some veterinarians offer daycare services.
Crate training puppies and adult dogs is a highly recommended alternative, the earlier the better. Puppies may be inclined to soil in a crate if it is too large, so you may need two sizes to accommodate your growing dog's needs.

Veterinary Check Up

Once you decide to welcome a new pet into your life, you should have a veterinarian examine the animal as soon as possible. Regular veterinary visits are also recommended to maintain your new pet's health.

Home Page :: Who We Are :: Make a donation :: Visit our Facility :: Our News :: Contact Us