CARING FOR YOUR PET
When you adopt an animal, you are taking responsibility for the life and care of another living being. It is important that you are well-informed about caring for your pet.
Food: Be sure to know the diet and feeding schedule of your pet and purchase the appropriate food. Establish a quiet, protected place to feed your pet where it feels safe and comfortable eating.
Water: Provide your pet with plenty of water throughout the day and refresh the water at least two times a day.
Shelter: Your pet should have a shelter to call home, whether that’s a cage or a doghouse. Choose a shelter that is comfortable, protective, and makes the animal feel like part of the family.
Exercise: Dogs need plenty of exercise, and you should take them on walks and allow them to run around and play games with you outside. Cats don’t require as much exercise, but still enjoy playtime with their owners. Rodents benefit from an exercise wheel within the cage.
Grooming: You should frequently brush and comb your pets to collect shedding hair. If possible, bathe dogs once a month and cats every few months, but be careful not to overdo it and interfere with natural oils on their skin. Poke around for flees, ticks, and leaves that could be tangled in your pet’s fur.
Love & affection: Animals love affection just as much as people do, so be sure to give it attention, hugs, kisses, and gentle pats. The more love you give your pet, the more love you will receive.
“Don’ts”: Never leave your pet alone in a car on a hot day. Don’t feed your pet chocolate – they can’t digest it and can die from too much. Don’t allow your pet to wander the neighborhood alone and keep your pet away from insect sprays and weed killers. Never give an animal human medicine.
