In the last year, I have had two animals dumped on my property.
I am asking those who are considering getting an animal to make sure you want it before you set eyes on an irresistibly cute puppy or kitten.
We have two veterinary services in Iola. Find out what shots are required, the cost of those shots and the specific care your animal may need.
The internet is a good place to find out what behaviors to expect for certain breeds. Find out what type of possible procedures it will need to stop some behaviors, such as a male cat spaying to show dominance.
It’s also a good idea to sign a mutual agreement that if the new pet is not a good fit, it can be returned to the former owner.
Don’t drive out to the country and automatically assume those of us who live out in the country would provide an abandoned pet a good home or that it could survive on its own.
There are a number of predators out here that would kill a dog or a cat in a heartbeat for food, including bobcats, large dogs, coyotes, and large birds of prey such as hawks and some very large crows.
Both of the animals that were dumped at my house were left to starve.
The dog is in better shape than the cat.
My neighbor, who has an affinity for cats, subsequently found it in her barn and has since given it the proper food it needs. She states it was probably dumped because it is an unspayed male.
Please get educated before you get an animal. Know the cost of food, the cost of being spayed or neutered, license fees, but most of all be 100% sure you want the animal and that you can afford the animal.
It takes time, love, dedication, and yes money, to be a good pet owner.
Sincerely,
Alzina Kress,
Iola, Kan.
