NIU

Taking care of your pet

Posted by Stacy on Wednesday, November 05, 2008 2:10 PM

We have always had a dog up until recently when our 13 year old boxer died. Since I am away at school I am not allowed to get a pet because our landlord doesn't allow them in our house because we don't have a fenced in yard and just got nice new wooden floors. At home though my dad is looking into getting another dog (probably a puppy). While we have in the past gotten our puppies from breeders, I always felt like we should go to the shelter and look for one because it makes me so sad that someone gave it away or lost it. It breaks my heart though going into the shelter and seeing the dogs locked up in there and it is really hard to pick one and leave the rest there for me.

I have never really understood why people get pets and then don't take care of them properly. I have always had a soft spot in my heat for dogs and it kills me to see them being abused or starved and given away. There are a lot of things that you need to do for you dog in order for them to live a happy and healthy life. You are choosing to get this pet so you need to make sure that you are willing and able to make a lifelong commitment to that pet.

Spaying and neutering is something that is recommended for the pet. It is safe and effective and helps you, your pet and your community. I also found out that there may be financial assistance available for those who need it and have pets that need spaying and neutering. You also need to make sure you can afford health care for your pet if anything should happen to it and also for the shots that it may need when it initially comes home or even after.

Your dog (or any other pet for that matter) needs attention and to be groomed properly and walked. Pets need exercise and to be taken out and played with. If you are not able or willing to do these things for your pet and provide it a safe home with food and shelter you really should think twice about waiting or not getting one at all. Getting a pet really isn't a joke at all; it is a living thing and needs to be taken care of properly and with love.