Humane Society of Elmore County News
Be Kind to Animals Week
This is Be Kind to Animals Week & National Pet Week® as well though we hope most live this way 52 weeks/year. But it is good to celebrate the special bonds between pets and their people. Our pets are loyal to us even when we are not the best to them, and we think they deserve a lifetime of our love and care.
Our pets provide companionship and unconditional love no matter what the circumstances. They bond to us, are there when we need some extra love, protect & help us while asking for so little in return. After all they do for us, this is the week to revisit how we can give back to them.
National Pet Week focuses on responsible pet ownership with suggestions below on how to be the best pet owner you can be:
1. Commit
• Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.
• Select a pet that’s suited to your home and lifestyle.
• Keep only the type and number of pets for which you can provide appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.
• Commit to the relationship for the life of your pet(s).
• Provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation.
• Properly socialize and train your pet.
2. Invest
• Recognize that pet ownership requires an investment of time and money.
• Make sure your pet receives preventive health care (vaccinations, parasite prevention), as well as care for any illnesses or injuries.
• Budget for potential emergencies.
3. Obey
• Clean up after your pet.
• Obey all local ordinances, including licensing, leash requirements and noise control.
• Don’t allow your pet to stray or become feral.
4. Identify – Make sure your pet is properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and keep its registration up-to-date.
5. Limit – Don’t contribute to our nation’s pet overpopulation problem: limit your pet’s reproduction through spay/neuter, containment or managed breeding.
6. Prepare
• Prepare for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.
• Make alternate arrangements if you can no longer provide care for your pet.
• Recognize any decline in your pet’s quality of life and make timely decisions in consultation with a veterinarian.
