04/11/2024
Rehoming your Pet(s)!
For those of you looking to rehome your pet, please allow me a few minutes of your time.
If truth be known, I am not a dog lover. I am a cat lover. The two dogs we have in my home, which are mostly for the family, annoy the heck out of me. So many times I catch myself, threatening to get rid of them. However, would I? ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Why? Because I made a lifetime commitment to them. So what does this mean?
A. When we move, as we rent, I only look at homes/apartments that allow dogs. I pay the deposit upfront or monthly whichever is their policy.
B. If I find myself without a job, which recently happened, I struggle to make ends meet, until I find another job. Just like I would do for my family and this includes the dogs. My Children do not get sent to an orphanage and dogs don’t get sent to a shelter.
C. Vet care, Flea prevention, etc. Yes, vet care is expensive. However, if you shop around or are willing to drive out of your area, there are vets that are affordable and will work with all income types. You just need to do the homework to find them. Flea prevention can be purchased through other affordable means, as well. CAPs in Katy has a pet clinic where they will charge a reasonable fee for preventative care along with flea medications. You can also order flea preventative by mail without a prescription using companies like Pet Bucket or Mega Pet Store. Both are reputable and used by many, including myself.
D. The excuse, “I’m allergic to my dog”. Guess what, so am I but I love animals so damn much that I take a daily Claritin tablet. Many die hard animal lovers will suffer through allergies over giving up their pet. Now, if your child is allergic or you are not sure, try fostering a pet first or get a dog that does not shed a lot. We do have breeds that are best for those with allergies.
E. Don’t get a pet just because a movie came out with that type of pet and you thought it was so dang cute! Do you realize how many breeds are extremely high strung, like Dalmatians, and require a lot of work, walking and physical activity. However, we all loved that movie! Cruella Daville was such a hoot. Many dogs are not a fit for your family and/ or lifestyle. Research a breed before you obligate yourself.
F. Don’t get a pet because it’s the holidays! Black cats for Halloween, a puppy for Christmas or a bunny/chick for Easter. Not if you aren’t going to make that lifelong commitment.
G. If you work long hours or travel for work, get a pet that works with your lifestyle and pocketbook. Dogs are not the best pet for this lifestyle. However, a cat is. Cats also do best in pairs if anyone was wondering.
H. Don’t shop/Adopt! People! Our shelters and rescues are FULL! Anyone who has adopted a dog or cat from a shelter or rescue will tell you what amazing animals they are. These animals are so grateful! I wouldn’t get my family pet any other way.
Remember, puppy mills are inhumane. The dogs are neglected and abused and forced to stay in tiny boxes strictly for breeding purposes. Once the dog can no longer produce they are killed or placed in a shelter.
Finding a reputable breeder is doable but why? You can find so many full bred dogs and cats in the shelter or at rescues. Many shelters offer specials for adopting too. Both will already have the dog or cat spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped for you so no extra expense out of your pocket.
I. Dog fighting is big money all over the United States but very big in Texas. These criminals are smart. They need bait dogs to help their dogs win and because there is not a shortage of unwanted animals they are checking Nextdoor and all social media for those of you wanting to find a home for the dog you can no longer keep. They are having sweet little old ladies inquire, or young moms with kids, so that you believe your dog is going to a good home. If a scary looking man/woman came to your door and said they wanted your dog for bait, would you give it to him? I would hope not but this is what they are doing now. They are providing you with what you want. An illusion that your dog/cat is going to a good home instead of being torn apart limb to limb for sport. What did your poor baby ever do to you to deserve this?
In ending! Please, have a heart! Don’t get a pet unless you can make a lifetime commitment.
If for some reason you cannot keep them, CHARGE A REHOMING FEE! This will increase your chances of eliminating those with not so good intentions. Someone who really wants your animal will not mind paying it. Charge $50. It may save their life.
If you refuse to charge a rehoming fee then please take them to the vet or shelter to be humanely euthanized. Don’t let them suffer.
THANK YOU!
A huge animal advocate and foster volunteer!