Friday, March 30, 2012

Finding a Good Home for Your Pet

By John Dorian


Due to circumstances beyond your control, there may come a time when you cannot look after your pets any more. As heartbreaking as it may be, ill health, relocation and financial circumstances sometimes mean we have to say goodbye to our trusted furry companions. With a little planning and preparation, this heart-wrenching time can be made easier, and give another loving family a wonderful pet.

Friends and Family Can Help

Before sending the pet to a shelter, speak with your friends and family. It is possible that someone in your circle feels a deep kinship for the animal and would jump at the chance to take it home. Don't forget your neighbors. They probably know your pet well, especially if it is a dog that the local children have played with over the years or have seen in your yard. Sending your pet to a good family in the same location may help the animal to assimilate easier to new surroundings.

Speak with Your Veterinarian

If there isn't a worthwhile owner in your immediate area, there are a number of other options to finding a good home for your pet. Speak with your veterinarian. They may know a good family in search of a pet. This may be an especially good deed if the family has recently lost their own beloved animal.

A good shelter will take your pet in and care for it while they work to find a suitable home. Run by volunteers who are animal lovers as well, reputable shelters screen new homes and families to ensure that your pet goes to the best possible home. Your veterinarian should have a few good shelters they can recommend.

Pet adoption websites help pets find new owners. Although you will have to reveal personal details on the site, this can be a good method to find your pet a new home. Be sure to talk to people who have used the website first before joining up.

What to do With a Problem Pet

A problem pet unfortunately often becomes an abandoned pet. Whether the owners are unable or unwilling to care for a pet with behavioral problems, this drastic step should be avoided at all costs. An abandoned pet is vulnerable to abuse, neglect and starvation as well as diseases such as rabies. There are options, and working with a good trainer can solve many behavioral problems. First check with your veterinarian to make sure the behavior is not a result of allergy or illness. The vet will be able to recommend professional trainers who specialize in pets with behavior problems and will be able to teach you and your pet how to change the behavior.




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