Today is National Homeless Pets Day-a time to remind us all that there are millions of dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and other domestic animals sitting in shelters waiting to be adopted into loving homes. There is not enough space here, or time for that matter, for me to list all of the very worthy shelters and rescue organizations that have wonderful pets waiting for their forever families. However, I can share with you that a choice to rescue your next pet instead of purchasing from a breeder will be surprisingly rewarding for not only the pet, but you and your family.
The standard argument against rescue or adopting a mixed breed pet is that the animal’s history is unknown, so you are left to guess about its temperament, medical history and physical attributes, particularly size if you are adopting a young dog. These are valid points. However, shelters are filled with dogs surrendered by their owners for many reasons, and full histories are often available. But this argument misses the point of bringing a pet into your family. An animal treated with love and affection will return the favor a thousand fold, regardless of its background. And from my perspective, the point of a family pet is to enrich your life, teach your children, and you, about taking care of animals and appreciating the world around you.
I had the privilege of assisting a Long Island animal shelter with public relations work for a few years. I say privilege because I played a role in bringing together pets and their forever families. And in the few adoption follow-ups I was involved in, I saw that the adopted pets were so happy to be in a real home, and so grateful to have a family of their own, even if it were a family of one. Their new pet parents now had someone to come home to, and the pet had a lap to curl up in, or a chair to sleep next to. It is an affection and loyalty so sublime that it defies description.
Everyone who has shared with me their rescued pet tale tell me that in the end the pet rescued the person, and don’t we all need a lifeline once in a while? Visit your local shelter, or on the web search for your next pet through www.petfinder.com
Do you have a favorite animal rescue story to share? Tell us about it in our comments section!
Here are some shots of the latest pup to rescue us-Wilson-he joined our family on July 31st after spending a few weeks in the care of Last Chance Animal Rescue Fund.
June 1st is the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane season, and if you have been listening to the morning news networks, you already knew that. Forecasters are predicting an active season-similar to 2005 (remember Katrina?), so before things get busy make a plan to safely evacuate yourself and your pets.
If the tragedy of hurricane Katrina had a silver lining, it is that it called attention to how essential it is that public shelters and evacuation plans include provisions for pets. So many people who stayed behind in New Orleans, and perished, did so because they did not want to leave their pets behind.
Most public shelters do not allow pets, so pet owners who live in areas prone to natural disasters (hurricanes are just the tip of the iceberg…wildfires, flooding, ice storms and nor’easters also take a heavy toll.) should make an evacuation plan and keep an evacuation kit in their car. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) recommends that you include the following in your kit:
- Food and water for at least five days for each pet, bowls and a manual can opener if you are packing canned pet food.
- Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof container and a first aid kit. A pet first aid book is also good to include.
- Cat litter box, litter, garbage bags to collect all pets’ waste, and litter scoop.
- Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport pets safely and to ensure that your pets can’t escape. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around and lie down. Your pet may have to stay in the carrier for hours at a time while you are away from home. Be sure to have a secure cage with no loose objects inside it to accommodate smaller pets. These may require blankets or towels for bedding and warmth, and other special items.
- Current photos and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them in case you and your pets become separated and to prove that they are yours.
- Pet beds and toys, if you can easily take them, to reduce stress.
- Information about your pets’ feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets or place them in foster care.
- Other useful items include newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, grooming items and household bleach.
- A frolick in the surf can turn into a swim for life in a hurricane.
Over the last few weeks, I have found myself in the company of pit bulls more frequently than usual, and I have to say it has been quite a pleasure. It has also prompted me to get on the soapbox to reiterate that these dogs do not deserve their reputation for aggression that the public and the media has perpetuated.
I’m not going to go on in yet another explanation of how it is the greedy people who use these dogs in fighting rings who have ruined the pit bull’s reputation. The Internet is full of well-researched articles that explain this very well. Simply put, a pit bull is a wonderful family pet who will steal your heart quicker than any golden retriever or puggle ever could. In fact in all my years living with and working with dogs, I have only been bitten twice–once was a German Shepherd Dog and the other was a Chihuahua. Every pit bull I have known has been completely sweet and gentle.
So, I will let my favorite form of communication, a photograph, say the rest for me:
The Cutchogue Canine Classic 2010 was another great day of canine cavorting, and ThePuparazzi was there to capture the fun. We loved meeting everyone with their sweet pooches. Some of the photos are just priceless! We have posted a separate online gallery where you can check out all the Puparazzi pics, and even buy reprints and enlargements if you would like…
The Puparazzi Canine Classic Gallery 2010
Here is a sample of a few of my favorites:
As you plan your weekend itinerary, make sure to include a stop at the Cutchogue Canine Classic on Sat., May 15th. This celebration of all things canine is fun for everyone, but especially the pup in your life. There will be quirky contests (the best couch potato), pet-related crafts and services, and best of all rescue groups and shelters with dogs ready for their forever homes.
Of course, ThePuparazzi will be there with the mobile studio ready to capture pet portraits while you wait for $10. Even better, we’ll be giving away a private pet photography session and 16×20 canvas wrap print. Make sure you enter your name and email address when you stop by ThePuparazzi booth to say hello. We’re looking forward to seeing the friends we made last year!
The Cutchogue Canine Classic is now in its third year, and on its way to becoming a spring time destination for doggie parents. A portion of the proceeds will support local eastern Long Island animal shelters and rescue groups, so please come on by and support those who help our homeless animals.
Here’s a favorite shot from last year’s portraits:
Three Amigos-A Trio of Chihuahuas
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I whole heartedly agree with this article, yes their are so very many beautiful, wonderful animals in our shelters that are deserving of loving homes. I have fostered and rescued some starting the beginning of this year and its been very rewarding indeed.
All the dogs I have brought into my home have been such loving and grateful animals, they truly do know that they have been saved!
It has not always been easy and I’ve learned quite a bit along the way, and have shed tears when my fosters leave for their forever homes, but so what! Their life if worth much more then a few of my tears!
I encourage everyone to open their heart and home and either adopt or foster a dog in need, you won’t regret it.