KINGWOOD — Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment — both emotionally and monetarily, according to Alix Evans, director of the Preston County Humane Society Spay and Neuter program.
“If you plan to get a pet for either yourself or someone else for Christmas, there is a lot to consider,” she said.
First, Evans said, one must decide if the pet will be kept indoors or outside.
Evans said some people prefer to keep their pets outside. This includes cats.
“If you are going to have an outdoor pet, have it spayed or neutered and make sure it has all of its shots,” she said. “Ignoring this is how feral cat colonies start.”
It’s also wise to consider all costs associated with having pets.
“A pet is expensive. If you are buying it as a gift, can the person you are buying it for afford to provide a long-term commitment?” Evans asked.
She said costs to consider are pet food, visits to the vet, flea treatments, grooming, as well as rabies and other shots. The pet could also become ill and require surgery or other medical procedures.
“Having a pet spayed or neutered is expensive. For a male cat it can cost from $100 to $175. For a female, it can cost between $125 to $200 or more,” Evans said. “Female cats should be spayed at 4 months of age.”
She said it can be even more expensive to have a dog spayed or neutered.
“The bigger the dog, the greater the expense,” Evans said. “We paid $800 to have a mastiff taken care of.”
She said the lifestyle of the owner is also important.
“Some people work, others travel a lot. Some situations might include finding a suitable kennel,” Evans said.
She said the size and type of pet, and how it will fit into the family, should also be considered.
“If you are getting a pet, I recommend getting one from a shelter,” Evans said. “You can see the pet and interact with it. Some shelter pets are already house trained.”
Evans said those buying a pet as a gift for someone shouldn’t make it a surprise gift. “Ask the person if they want a pet before you get them one.”
“A pet can be joy to the family, but don’t adopt one on a whim,” she said.
Protecting outdoor pets
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) site offers safety tips for outdoor pets and animals.
Outdoor cats, either owned pets or community cats, need protection from the elements as well as food and water.
A cat shelter can be made quickly using a plastic tub.
Cars are one of many hazards to small animals. Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on the car’s hood to scare them away before starting the engine.
No matter what the temperature is, windchill can threaten an animal’s life. Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia during extreme cold snaps. For this reason, short-haired dogs often feel more comfortable wearing a sweater, even during short walks.
Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of a pet’s feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before pets lick them and irritates their mouths.
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up any antifreeze spills immediately and keep it, like all household chemicals, out of reach. Coolants and antifreeze made with propylene glycol are less toxic to pets, wildlife and family.
Dogs are at particular risk of salt poisoning in winter due to the rock salt used in many areas, often licking it from their paws after a walk. Store de-icing salt in a safe place and wipe the dog’s paws, even after short walks. If a pet ingests rock salt, call a veterinarian immediately.
More info: humanesociety.org/resources/five-ways-protect-pets-winter
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