2. 3
CHAPTER
Small Animals as Pets

3. 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

4. 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?

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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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?

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

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

15. 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

16. 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

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