3 CHAPTER Small Animals as Pets

Background of Pet Ownership Animals domesticated for ~10,000 years Dogs probably first, followed by cats Pre-WWII, pets used for hunting, farming, show Post-WWII, pets became companions Millions now abandoned each year America becoming “no-kill” nation

Questions to Ask before Pet Purchase Where should I obtain a pet? How much space do I have for a pet? What kind of animal does my lifestyle allow? How much will the animal cost? What will the future bring? Does everyone in the family want a pet? What kind of personality do I have? Is this animal a fad or a status symbol? What am I going to use the animal for?

Places to Obtain a Pet Pet shop Breeder Shelter Friend/neighbor

Space Needed for a Pet Activity level of pet is determining factor Active pet: Needs large or rural area Inactive pet: Small area suffices Owner should determine pet’s activity level before purchase/adoption

Proper Lifestyle for a Pet Animals need differing amounts of space, time, and care Dogs need daily exercise and grooming Cats require little daily maintenance Owner lifestyle should match pet needs Hamsters or gerbils may suit where dogs or cats do not

Cost of a Pet Purchase price is just initial cost Ongoing costs include food, vet care, grooming, shelter, toys, taxes, insurance Average annual costs Dogs: $420 to $780 Cats: $575 Rabbits: $691 Guinea pigs: $505 Small mammals: $305

Future with a Pet Will the pet be cute, cuddly when mature? Can the family always afford the pet? Will the children abandon pet care? Can pets go with children into adulthood?

Family Desire and a Pet All family members should want the pet and take responsibility for its care Surprise or gift pets may become unwanted Allergies are a determining factor Allergies can preclude pet ownership Proactive investigation can prevent disappointment in pet’s return

Owner Personality and a Pet Pet and animal personalities should complement Breeds often have consistent characteristics Potential owners should study breeds Pet personalities can vary by species and individual Dogs range from docile to active and playful Cats can be friendly or aloof “Pocket pets” tend to offer owners control

Status of Pet Ownership Breeds fall in and out of fashion Examples of pets fallen out of vogue Shar-Pei Dalmation Owners should thoroughly investigate breeds and assess them for suitability

Use of a Pet Use particularly important with dog selection Possible dog uses include hunting, tracking, herding, guarding Matching breed with desired use enhances success Pedigree can sometimes predict ability

Lessons of Pets for Children Responsibility Social skills Respect and compassion Coping with loss

Benefits of Pets for the Elderly Lowered blood pressure Quicker illness recovery Relief from life stressors Better overall health Fewer doctor’s visits Higher survival rates Better coping skills Companionship

Role of Euthanasia Defined as death induced quickly and humanely May be necessary option when pet: No longer moves comfortably Loses appetite or ability to eat Fails to appreciate human companionship Injures or threatens injury Becomes riddled with pain Requires unaffordable health care

Solution for Animal Overpopulation Educate people about the problem Pass animal control laws and enforce existing ones Emphasize the importance of spaying and neutering