[Pets]

lwh351 — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 17:32:10 -0400

So you want to become a pet owner ? Congratulations you have made a wise choice. Pets are playful, loyal and interesting companions and they just plain old make you feel good.

Research shows that being with animals can improve morale and lower blood pressure. But with ownership comes responsibility; so take some time to think about what kind of animal will best suit you, your family and your lifestyle.

Pet Advocacy

Even pets need advocates. Follow the links below to learn more about two of the oldest groups whose mission is to protect animals.

The American Humane Association

The Humane Society of the United States

Pet Adoption

Adopting a pet is wonderful way to bring a pet into your life as well as giving to the larger cause of pet homelessness. The American Humane Association believes animal shelters are the best place to locate your new friend. Not only do they have a great selection of adult animals for adoption, but they also have kittens and puppies, even purebred animals.

Shelters, Societies and Groups

When you being your search for places to adopt your pet you may encouter the terms such as shelters, societies and groups. What is the difference?

* Open Access Shelters-usually take in all stray animals and are typically county or city shelters.

*Humane Societies-are private facilities, access will vary depending on the policies of the society.

* Foster Groups-are usually volunteer foster parents with no physical location.

Regional/Local Resources

Get hooked up with your new pet or do some volunteering to help pets in need. Follow the links below to help you get started on your search.

N&O's Pet Connections

SPCA of Wake County

Wake County Animal Control and Adoption Center

Animal Protection Society of Durham

Johnston County Animal Protection League

Animal Protection Society of Orange County

Chatham County Animal Shelter

SPCA of Franklin County

Bringing Home Your New Pet

You've found the perfect furry friend. Congratulations! Now you have to take them home. Here are some tips to make that transition go smoothly.

CATS

-Cats hate riding in cars. Don't find out the hard way, confine kitty to sturdy pet carrier for the ride home. If left loose, kitty could panic and cause you to have an accident. Keep in mind that once your kitty takes the ride home, he or she may not be in the most playful mood.

-Once you get kitty home select a quiet, closed-in area such as your bedroom or an extra bathroom to allow him/her to get acclimated to their new home within a limited space. Don't forget to provide food, water and a litter box.

-Over the next days, slowly introduce kitty to the rest of the house including other pets and household members.

DOGS

-Dogs actually like riding in cars but that doesn't mean your new friend isn't feeling a bit confused and disoriented wondering where this stranger (you) is taking them.

-Purchase the things your dog will need in advance of arriving at home. You will need a collar and leash, food and water bowls and toys.

-Just as with kitty slowly introduce doggy to the rest of the house including other pets and be patient there is no set time for when your new friend might adjust.

Whether your new friend is a cat or dog, try to arrange his/her arrival for a weekend or when you can be home for a few days, this will give you a chance to bond with your new friend.

Caring for Your Pet

Pets depend on you for nourishment, medical attention and a safe home. Here is some information about how to care for your new pet.

Identification Tags- Your pet needs a tag to ensure their safe return if lost.

Vaccinations- Protect pets from serious disease by keeping their vaccines up to date.

Exercise-Both cats and dogs need exercise. Cats like to chase things because they are natural hunters. So why not challenge and excite them by inventing games in which they can hunt imaginary prey? While dogs get some exercise running around in a fenced yard, they deserve a walk a day outside the yard.

Grooming- Grooming is an important part of pet ownership. Pets need regular brushing, bathing, and dental care. Pet with longer hair often require trips to the groomer.

Spay/Neuter-Take your cat or dog to a veterinarian for this simple procedure. Your pet will actually be happier and healthier for it. Click here to for more resources on pet spaying/neutering.

Make a Donation to Homeless Pets!

All pets aren't as lucky as your pet. There are countless pets at local shelters, societies and groups that need your help, so please donate.

*Donate to the SPCA of Wake County

*Donate to the APS of Durham

*Donate to the Johnston County APL

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[Pets]