I wish to thank all the people who phoned me regarding the two dogs who were orphaned when their owner was killed on Highway 154. Due to their concern, I want them to know that these two precious dogs have been placed in exceptional homes. If only all dogs could be so fortunate.
Pets need a quiet environment and an owner who has time to put a timer on every 45 minutes and take them outside to relieve themselves.
When you do decide to adopt, you might consider a county shelter, where there is a big choice and, for a small fee, one gets a pet that is already spayed or neutered, plus vaccinated. VIVA in Lompoc also has many cats for adoption: 735-6741.
Personally, I prefer a mixed breed older dog. They are usually healthier and easier to train. I have heard horror stories about dogs from pet stores and breeders. Besides that, I consider it immoral to encourage breeding, while millions of pets are being housed and killed at taxpayers’ expense.
It would be nice if every pet lover could have a pet, however many people have told me that they no longer have a pet, as veterinary charges are so expensive. Others can’t afford monthly grooming, yet they get a dog or cat that requires frequent grooming, and the poor animals are left to suffer due to the lack of vet care or of grooming.
Dog owners often tell me that their dog has too much energy and digs or chews from boredom. Please consider putting a tetherball outside. Not only will they entertain themselves, but they’ll also get much-needed exercise. Big 5 Sports is the only store I found that sells tetherballs.
This article appears in Jan 6-13, 2011.