Think ahead:  Companion Animals are for Life

As the Holiday season (or anytime for that matter) approaches, we know many people are looking for the perfect present...Maybe a dog, maybe a cat.  Of course, we always encourage adopting from your local animal shelter; of course we encourage you to buy good high quality food and treats; of course we encourage you to engage with your pet and of course, we encourage you to plan ahead and to think. Pets are not a commodity... they are not disposable...they are not a novelty... they are a commitment. 

Before bringing a pet into your life, make sure you have the time to spend with them, the financial resources to take care of them, and, a big enough bed and couch to snuggle up with them.  All to many times, I have heard stories of how people have adopted a pet, or gotten or given a pet as a Christmas present, only to hear about a month or two later how they had to surrender "their buddy" because they didn't have the time, it was to expensive, it pottied  in the house, it chewed a shoe, it wanted to go out and go for a walk all the time, it was to rambunctious and a slew of many other reasons.

Here are the facts-If you bring a puppy or kitten or any type of baby into your home, your bringing their heart in to your home too. Guess what, they were probably a little nervous at first, it's a new home, with new people and new freedom.  They are little "children", they are going to get into things, they are going to explore.  If you don't have the time to take them for walks, potty train, exercise them and love them, then please don't bring one into your home and your life.  They trust you, they love you, and they want to be with you.  There is an old saying, A dog (or cat or any pet) is a part of your life, but to you, you are everything in their life.

So we encourage you to Think Ahead and Plan Ahead.  They are a commitment, but one definitely worth it.  The love and companionship you get from a pet, makes it so worth the commitment you make to them. They are always there with a wagging tail, warm heart, and ear to listen, and they will be there to greet you when you get home to "their" home.