EXCUSES!!! Giving Up Your Pet?

We love him, but...

There are dozens of lame excuses why people give up their pets. Most excuses are just that- excuses. People more than likely can keep their pets- they just don't want to. When our life situations change, we have to think of our pets. Instead of doing the little bit of extra work required to accomodate pets, most people take the easy way out and simply give the pet up. "I can't keep my pet" translates into "I don't want to keep my pet."

Common excuses we hear:

We're moving…

this is the most commonly used excuse for giving up a pet. So you're moving? So what? Why can't you take your pet with you? "Well, the place I am moving to doesn't accept pets." Lame. With a little more work, you can find a place that accepts pets. Think of it objectively, and admit, you really can take your pet- you just don't want to. An animal is a lifetime responsibility. Have you ruled out every possibility of taking your pet with you? A pet can adapt to new places faster than you might think, as long as you, are there.

Allergies…

Do you know for a fact the pet is the cause of your allergies? Of the hundreds of allergens out there, you're sure it's your pet. Think back a bit. Could the sneezing have started before you brought your dog or cat home? Have you seen an allergist to find out if your pet is the problem? Nope. Because that entails work. It's easier to just give up the pet. Ever hear of allergy medicine?

Now that's he's older, the kids have lost interest…

Most parents agree that the best way for children to learn about responsibility is by teaching them to care for a pet. Ask yourself the following question: Is abandoning your pet because it is not as convenient or as cute as it used to be a good example for your children? Children need to realize that pets are living, needing creatures that should not be cast off like old clothes that no longer fit. A pet is a responsibility for life.

He can't be house-trained...

House-training your dog or cat takes time and patience. Have you given enough of both? Is there anyone home with your pet during the day? When you are away from home, isolate your dog or cat in a less “delicate” area of your home (such as the laundry room, workshop, or mudroom), and make sure that essentials such as food, water and kitty litter are always accessible. Has everyone in your family taken the time to learn the same house-training methods, or could your pet be confused by different signals? Contact your veterinarian for behaviour counselling or referral to a specialist.

We don't have time for him anymore...

Many people feel there isn't enough time in the day to do everything that needs to be done, but when you made the decision to adopt a pet, you made a lifelong commitment to take care of this animal. Spending a little time each day with your pet can actually help take your mind off your problems. Walking your dog or grooming your cat is a great way to relax and relieve stress. Watching your pet enjoy the attention is well worth the effort!

We have a new baby...

Congratulations! When properly introduced, your cat or dog will most likely become one of your child's lifelong friends. Your pet will also provide comfort and companionship. Human infants usually evoke gentler responses from animals, and especially from dogs because of their social nature. By involving your baby and your pet in experiences your pet enjoys, such as walk time, you will make your pet's adjustment to the new baby much easier. There is no valid reason that a pet must be given up just because you've had a baby. Think about it. "We've had a baby." So? And that means you can't keep your pet? Lots of couples have babies, and keep their pets. So what's your excuse?

We can't afford him...

If you are having trouble providing basic necessities for your pet, examine your priorities and spending habits carefully. Do you need to buy that compact disc or handbag?

He runs away all the time...

Is your pet spayed or neutered? If not, he or she is more likely to wander. Is your pet being exercised regularly? Dogs need to be walked or to exercise every day to use up all their exuberant energy! Taking the time to teach your dog proper commands, either by yourself or with the assistance of a professional dog trainer, will keep him by your side. Is your backyard properly fenced? If you own a cat, have you considered keeping it inside at all times? That will stop it from wandering!

The neighbours are complaining...

When you take your dog for a walk, do you "stoop and scoop" the “gifts” your dog leaves behind as you pass your neighbour's lawn? Excessive barking or scratching could be a result of boredom. Have you been spending enough time with your pet doing exciting activities? Most problems can be solved by providing alternatives and gentle training.

Remember- the key here is that you can keep your pet. You just don't want to.

Can't = won't

This is in or around everywhere