CUSTOM CAT CARE FROM SLEEP-EAS-ZZ…

Every dog has its day.

I love cats because I enjoy my home, and little by little, they become its visible soul.-Jean Cocteou

Dogs come when they are called; cats take a message and get back to you later.-Mary Bly

Dogs have owners; cats have staff.

For many of us, life without dogs, cats or other pets would be difficult to imagine. After all, there’s nothing quite like the exuberant greeting of your dog when you come home from a long day or the soft purring of your cat curled up next to you as you read a book. Yes, there is much that could be said about pet ownership! And, no, not all of it is easy, but the happiness our pets bring makes the occasional challenge worthwhile.

Of course, if you have been a pet owner for some time, then you are fully aware if the ups and random downs, of having a pet. In fact, apparently many Americans are very acquainted with pet ownership as according to the Humane Society of the United States:

• 39% of American households have at least 1 dog
• 33% that have at least 1 cat
• More than 77 million dogs and 93 million cats living as pets
• 19 million horses, fish, ferrets, hamsters, lizards, snakes and other domesticated animals.

Yes, there are many of us who love out pets!

Are You Ready For Pet Ownership?

If you have never been a pet owner (especially of a cat or dog), but are considering it, then chances are you are well aware of the positive aspects of pet ownership.  However, you  may be somewhat concerned by what  else pet ownership may entail. Consequently, you may be asking yourself, “What makes a good pet owner?” To help out, here are 6 questions to consider carefully before choosing a pet.

1. Is this a snap decision? Major changes to your life should never be made quickly or on a whim. Take your time. Animals typically have along lifespan so taking on a pet is a long-term commitment.
2. Do you have a place for the pet to sleep? While many times cats are content to sleep on the back of a couch or curled up on one’s bed, dogs do best if they have kennel, a large pet “mattress” or a significant place to call home. Be sure you have somewhere your canine friend can sleep in safety and comfort.
3. Do you have time for a pet? Pets regardless of their species, require time. However, dogs definitely take a bit more time as you need to walk them often- especially if you do not have a fenced in back yard. In addition, pets need social interaction and stimulation. Taking your pets with you when run errands, talking to them, playing games of chase and tug-a-war and other forms of involvement will make for a happy, and healthy, pet.
4. What about the vet? Pet owners must be willing to take their pets to the vet, not just for emergencies, but for basic things like physicals, shots and other elements of pet health care such as spaying or neutering.
5. Will you protect them? While you may see getting a large dog as protection for you, what are you doing to protect your pets? This goes beyond the physicals at the vet, but also includes having a microchip implanted in your dog or cat and registering them with one of the lost and found organizations.  In addition, be sure to keep collars and ID tags on your pet at all times!
6. What about education? Pet ownership means that you need to always be learning. From pet training classes to being aware of the latest in pet care or health, it is vital that you take the time to learn about your pet’s health, habits, history and more so that you can be a great pet parent.

These are just a few of the more important aspects you should consider when thinking about getting a pet. If you are not sure that you are willing to take the time to commit to the responsibilities listed here, the perhaps you will want to wait a bit longer before becoming a pet owner.  However, if these questions barely give you pause, then you are likely ready to select your pet.  If you are not sure what type or breed of pet would be best for your situation, feel free to talk to us. Here at A-1 Pets we have been around a variety of animals and would be glad to share our knowledge with you.

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