Lexi and her pups: A Happy Tale

It is always surprising how much can happen in two months. In two short months, just about nine weeks, ten little puppies were born to Momma Lexi. The surviving eight grew into beautiful puppies and six of those are now in homes. Momma Lexi is all safe and happy in her new home.

The puppies were named for the characters on Criminal Minds; Reid, Prentiss, Hotch, Garcia, Morgan, JJ, Erin.

The puppies got a little messy on their way to the adoption event, so this wonderful family that adopted two gave them baths so the staff could set up for the adoption event.

Here are some of the puppies new families...

The final two puppies will be going home after Thanksgiving Day.  The volunteers deserve kudos for all their hard work in taking care of the puppies. The families deserve congratulations for their new family member. Here’s to lots of years of laughter and love!

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Cat

This August Fetch! Pet Care is dedicating the month to rescue cats and cat adoption. It seems only fit that our fun feline friends have the whole month to themselves! There are millions of cats in shelters waiting to find a happy home. Adopting a cat is a big responsibility but with careful planning you can do it! Here are some things to consider to determine if you’re ready to add a kitty to your family.

First, make sure your home is cat friendly. If you rent your home or apartment, the first thing you need to do is see if you are permitted to have animals in the building. Going against your lease agreement can be a big headache! If your lease agreement does not allow for pets, you might call your landlord and see if they are flexible on the issue. Also, decide if you have room for a cat. While cats need less space than dogs, they still need their own area. Decide where you would put the cat’s litter box, and have his own play area once he arrives.

The second thing to consider is the other people in your home. Talk with your family or roommates and see how they feel about having a cat. Do they have any allergies, or other concerns? Don’t forget the other animals in your family too! If you have other pets it’s important to know how they will react to having a new brother or sister. Does your pet do well around others? When other pets are involved it may be a good idea to set up a trial visit, so you can gauge how both animals will get along. Animals are very in-tune with emotions, so it’s important to make sure you will be bringing your cat into a welcoming and loving home.

The third thing to consider is if your current lifestyle permits the time and money associated with caring for a cat. Be honest: are you constantly on the go, does your other pet require all of your attention? Not all cats are the same; research different breeds to see which would best suit your lifestyle. If you’re busy, roommates and family members can be a great resource for co-parenting too!

Your cat will also come with some added monthly expenditures. Put together a basic budget of what your cat will cost you per month. Make sure to include: food, toys, possible medical expenses, and other kitty services, like a Fetch! Pet Care cat sitter who can provide daily, or cat visits and playtime exercise. Be honest about what you can afford so you are prepared and your kitty will be well cared for.

Lastly, consider where you want to get a cat from. Remember, there are way too many cats in rescue and adoption shelters who need a home. Consider these sources first and help to change a furry one’s life for the better.

If having a pet is new for you, it’s a great idea to watch a friend’s pet for a while, so you know what to expect when you have your own. Your new cat will give you tons of unconditional love, attention and laughs! All of the responsibilities are well worth it and remember Fetch! Pet Care is always here to cover your tailand has your tail covered!

The Pros and Cons of Pet Adoption

If you’re looking to add a new pet to your family, it’s important to know the facts about where our pets come from. There are a variety of places to get a new pet, including shelters, breeders, friends, dog shows, or dog directories. All of these are viable options, but there are pros and cons to each avenue of adoption.

When adopting a pet from a shelter, you’re potentially saving an animal’s life. Many pets are euthanized each year because they can’t find homes, so giving them a home is both admirable and beneficial. Of course, there is a reason why these pets are now in shelters. They could have been put through some traumatic experiences, not wanted by their previous owner, or born without a home. There are many pets in shelters that can be temperamental, and many that are non-tempermental, but there are so many pets to choose from that finding one that you love and that you want to add to your family shouldn’t be difficult at all.

If you’re considering getting a pet from a breeder, the first thing you need to do is research your breeder. Some want to get a purebred dog, or a popular mixed breed. You just need to make sure that your breeder is treating their pets well. Also, be prepared to pay a fee for your pet, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. There are a few telltale signs that your breeder may or may not be a breeder worth getting your new pet from. If the breeder’s home is clean, and the dogs are allowed room to play and interact with one another, that is a good sign. If the breeder is only dealing with one kind of dog, and only one litter at a time, then you know that the breeder is serious about their pet rearing. If the breeder is knowledgeable about their specific breed’s genetic disorder, and if they have treated the pets with the correct vaccinations, then you’ll know that they are responsible breeders.

Getting a new pet from your friends or family can also be a great solution. It’s easier than a breeder and probably cheaper as well. It’s also allows you to ask upfront questions and discuss what you will do with your pet with your friends or family than it would be with a random breeder. You can plan on who will take the pet to the vet to get their vaccination, and who will get your pet spayed or neutered. You’ll also know that the pet was not mistreated and will know how your puppy is doing every step of the way.

There are many factors in determining where you want to adopt your pet from. Remember to also think about how the pet will integrate into your household. Determine if someone in your family will be able to care for them daily, or if you will require the services of a professional dog walker or pet sitter. There is no right option as long as you do your research and find a pet that is perfect for you and your family.