• During the COVID-19 pandemic, our pets had been a constant source of comfort as they kept us company during the lockdowns.  

• These animals are totally dependent on us and in return, they give us unconditional love, loyalty and companionship.  Many people even treat their pets as members of their family.  

• However, an increasing number of neglected and abandoned animals were left to fend for themselves during the crisis.  

• This would not be happening if people did not treat animals as things that could easily be discarded when it became too hard or inconvenient.  

• Owning a pet is a long term commitment. The  following information is not new but please do your homework before getting one. 

COST

1. Food:  Consider commercial (kibble/canned food) versus home-cooked food or a combination of both to feed your pet.  Larger breeds will incur higher cost.

2. Vet bills:  Budget for basic care including vaccinations and medical bills due to sickness or injuries.  Spay/neuter your pet to prevent future health problems and unwanted litters.

3. Grooming :  Long haired breeds require regular grooming.

4. Going on Holiday:  Budget for pet sitters or boarding facilities.

5. Leaving the Country:  Budget for re-location to take your pet with you.  If you are not able to take your pet, please find alternative arrangements or re-home them.  

TIME

1. Lifestyle:  Choose the type of dog to fit into your lifestyle and activities based on the following criteria:  puppy vs older dog; temperament; size; energy level; need for physical exercise.

2. Work commitments:  If you work long hours or travel often, get family members involved including your children to look after your pet. 

BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOUR

1. Excessive barking and aggressive behaviour:  Training is necessary and so is leashing your dog when taking it for a walk to avoid complaints.

2. Hygiene:  Pick up after your dog when out in public.   Keep your garden / yard clean.

3. Roaming:  Keep your pet indoors.  Have an identity tag on their collar in case they escape or get lost. 

UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

1. Hospitalisation:  Have a contingency plan if you live alone and become ill or incapacitated.  Ask your neighbours and friends for help, find a fosterer, board or re-home them if you are no longer able to look after them.

2. Death:  Make a will for the continued care of your pet.

3. New pet does not get along with my other pets / family members:  All family members must agree to take the animal home and share in the responsibility of looking after it.  Let the animal adjust to the new environment before introducing it to the other pets.  House training and setting of rules is crucial.

OWNING A PET IS A PRIVILEGE AND COMES WITH OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

They give us so much joy.  It is our duty to look after them.  How we treat animals reflects on ourselves. 

“We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.”  -  Immanuel Kant

Please share this information with family and friends who are wanting to welcome an animal into their homes.