Q. I am thinking of buying a pet. How do I find the best pet shop?
A. We suggest you adopt, rather than buy. Check our Animal Concerns section, or visit your local animal shelter. You may save a life.
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Q. If I adopt a cat or dog, do I need to spay or neuter?
A. Yes. Many states require this to prevent the death of thousands of unwanted cats and dogs. It is the only humane way to go.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. If I adopt a cat, should I let it roam outside? I've heard that they enjoy this more than being cooped up inside.
A. Though cats like to prowl, pounce and play, they can do all these inside with you and a few toys without falling prey to predators, or exposed to disease, poison, traps and traffic. In short, indoor cats live longer and safer lives.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. Should my dog or cat wear an identification tag or implanted chip?
A. An identification tag or chip is a lost pet's ticket home. An estimated 5% of rescued pets with an identification tag on their collar or an implanted microchip are claimed by their owner.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. Do cats need to be licensed?
A.There are no state laws, with the exception of Rhode Island, mandating the licensing of cats. However, their licensing may fall under a municipal decree for the remaining 49 states. Check your state's local laws for fees and regulations.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. I'm thinking of adopting a dog. If he stays outside, what does he need?
A. Outside dogs need basically a doghouse, food and water. Basic shelter, food and water hold for all outside pets.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. What if my dog stays in the house, does he need to be vaccinated?
A. Most states require all dogs to be vaccinated by the age of 6 months. Check your state's regulations.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. What if I don't want to vaccinate my dog. What then?
A. The violation for keeping an unvaccinated dog in most states is $50, although you can be cited every ten days of the violation. Check your state's regulations.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. What about a license? My dog stays on my property, does he have to be licensed?
A. Most states have laws requiring all dogs to be licensed by the age of 6-7 months. Check your state's regulations.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. Can I be cited for having an unlicensed dog?
A. Yes. Although state laws differ, most charge $25 per violation; with citations issued everyday until your dog(s) is/are licensed. Check your state's regulations. At any rate, life is much safer for a licensed dog.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. OK! So how much does it cost for the license?
A. Fees vary by state for altered and unaltered dogs; with proof of rabies vaccination. Check your city or state regulations.
(Source: The Humane Society of the United States)
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Q. Speaking of rabies. What should I do if my pet has been bitten by a wild animal that might be rabid; such as a raccoon, skunk or even a bat?
A. Put on gloves and wash - with soap and running water - any bitten area that contains the attacker's saliva. This should prevent the possibility of the rabies spreading. Then, take your pet to a veterinarian within 24 hours.
(Source: American Veterinary Medical Association)
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Q. I live in a rural area. How can I protect my pet from a wild animal attack?
A. Keep your pet indoors at night, and under control during the day.
(Source: American Veterinary Medical Association)
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Note: Pets are not just cats and dogs. They come in all types and groups. All have their place in our world. And all should remain safe!
~ Doc Jim
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