Adopt a Pet: Remember Pets as Gifts Require Love and Responsibility

12/19/2007

Interested in adopting a pet this holiday season? Officials with the Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center want to remind citizens the shelter offers ways of making sure that animal lovers are remembered this holiday. Gift certificates can be purchased so that the right owner is matched with the right pet. One can also donate supplies used in providing care to the remaining homeless animals such as newspaper, paper towels, pet food, cat litter and pet shampoo.

Wake County on any given day has an average of about 100 pets available for adoption. They are healthy, vaccinated and ready for a loving and responsible family.

The center officials also want to remind citizens of the responsibilities of pet ownership before making such an important decision. Giving pets as gifts requires love coupled with responsibility. Traditionally, pet adoption rates rise during the holiday season. Unfortunately, some of pets are returned to the shelter because their owners simply couldn't meet the demands that pet ownership requires.

Here are some factors to consider before adopting a pet for yourself, a family member or for a friend:

- If you have other pets at home, will they get along with the new pet?
- Are you aware of your local animal control laws?
- Is anyone in your household allergic to animals? If so, how will you handle this?
- Have you thought about how the pet may affect your lifestyle or the lifestyle of the perspective pet owner?
- Be sure to select an animal that fits your schedule and exercise routine. Be aware of the time needed to care for a pet.
- Have you considered adoption of an older pet? Some older pets are more suitable, calmer and may be housebroken.
- Do you have supplies for a new pet? Can you meet the financial commitment to a new pet for the next 10-20 years?
- Do you have a veterinarian? If not, you will need to choose one to provide future medical care for your new pet.

The shelter offers ways of making sure that animal lovers are remembered this holiday. Gift certificates can be purchased so that the right owner is matched with the right pet. You can also donate supplies used in providing care to the homeless animals such as; newspaper, paper towels, pet food, cat litter and pet shampoo.

Wake County Animal Center Hours of Operation:
Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 11:00a.m. - 4:00p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday: 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Please be advised that the center will be closed December 22-26, 2007, and will re-open on December 27. The Wake County Animal Care, Control and Adoption Center is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive, Raleigh. For more information, call 212-7837.

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