They take some work, but they are worth it!

Caring For Your Pet

There are some basic things all pet owners should do: establish a relationship with a veterinarian, make sure your home is safe for your pet, and give them good food, fresh water, and plenty of love. Are you encountering behavioral problems? If you have had a big life change, check our our FAQs for some tips. Otherwise, you should visit your vet. Pets can’t tell us when they don’t feel good, and behavioral changes can often indicate a medical condition.

Here are some other resources all pet owners should be familar with:

• Emergency Clinic – know the number and location of your local emergency veterinarian. In our area you can visit Denton County Animal Emergency Room (DCAER) or Center for Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Care.
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control – Learn what is toxic to your pet and a 24 hour hotline if your pet gets into something they shouldn’t
• Get the Pet First Aid app from the American Red Cross
• Disaster preparedness for your pet – make sure your family plans include your pets. Visit the ASPCA for 5 great steps to make sure your pets are safe during a disaster.

Moving?

There are plenty of housing options available for pet owners. You don’t have to leave your pet if you are looking for a new home. Check out these resources to find your next place with your furry friend. Are you an apartment complex manager or landlord with properties for rent that allow pets? Please email us at web@humanetomorrow.org and we’ll be happy to add your contact info!

Apartment List
Apartment Guide
Apartment Finder

Thinking of Getting A Pet?

Getting a new puppy or kitten is exciting. But unfortunately, too many animals are discarded after the newness has worn off. Other times, animals are simply neglected. Before bringing a new animal into your life, please take into consideration the items below. – then decide if a pet is right for you.

Do not get a pet on a whim. Domesticated pets live anywhere from 13-20 years when properly cared for. The decision to get a pet should be reached after careful consideration for the future of you and your pet. Provisions should be made in the event that your pet outlives you.

Before getting a pet, research the breed and type of animal to make sure that it fits with you and your family’s lifestyle and living conditions.

Spay or neuter your pet. Take the animal to the veterinarian for vaccinations and preventative care.

Cats live much longer, healthier lives indoors. Research alternatives to declawing when considering this procedure on a cat. Declawing is an extremely invasive surgery, and can lead to behavioral problems.

When planning for your future, plan for you animal’s as well. Animal behaviorists and veterinarians can help with introducing pets to new babies, transitioning during a move, and other major life changes. With planning, many problems can be prevented.

Domesticated animals are no longer wild animals. Because of this, proper food and shelter must be provided by the owner. Consider crate training if you are concerned about your animal being indoors unsupervised.

LOVE YOUR PET. Domesticated animals crave attention. While many animals may have food, water, and shelter, they need love as well. Animals given proper attention and care typically have fewer behavioral problems.