Why we should care for our pets?

Pets play an important role in the home and can be wonderful companions to kids, adults and seniors. The bond that forms between a family and their pet is sometimes difficult for non pet owners to understand, but for all of us who have or have had a pet in our home, we know the joy and pleasure these faithful companions can bring.
Owning and caring for a family pet doesn’t have to be a difficult or burdensome experience. Simplepetcare.com is a free resource that was created for pet lovers like you to take away the mystery and difficulty of everyday pet care. From dogs, cats and birds, to reptiles and small rodents you’ll find all the necessary information to properly care for your pet.
Through a little knowledge and special care, you can make your pet a healthy, happy part of your home for years to come.

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Find Your Best Pet

Finding the perfect pet friend to make your life complete depends on several different considerations. Choosing a domestic animal to cohabit with is not only a matter of the heart, but also a very practical matter of the mind. You must do some serious soul-searching and take inventory of your life as is before even deciding to adopt a pet of any type. First you must determine whether you would be a good pet owner. Have you had pets before? Do you know how to take care of the type of pet you are considering? Taking care of a cat is different than taking care of a dog

or bird or even a goldfish. Consider your current lifestyle. Will a pet fit in? Are you home enough to devote the time that a pet requires? Are there children or other pets in your home that must be considered? Can you afford the financial responsibility of taking care of a household pet? You must also consider who will care for your pet when you are traveling, whether for business or vacation.

If you have taken complete inventory of your life and are able to confidently affirm that you are ready to adopt a pet for life, the guide below will help steer you in the right direction in terms of finding the pet that will fit you best.

Dogs

Puppies and dogs alike require more time and attention than other types of pets. Even the most passive of the canine breed will need walks more than once a day as well as adequate playtime daily. In addition, dogs may require obedience training. Many people prefer dogs to other types of pets because they can be trained to protect the home or do tricks that amuse and impress humans. However, training your animal to do what you want takes a lot of skill and effort and does not (by any means) happen by itself. Taking care of a dog is a lot of work. In addition to feeding, walking (which means picking up after) and training, dogs must be bathed and groomed. This means that you will either find yourself struggling with a wiggly, breathless pup in the tub, or that you will shell out wads of cash for someone else to do your dirty work.

As much work as caring for a dog may be, many people find the trouble to be well worth it. Dogs are excellent companions and actually build a strong bond with their owners. Dogs of different breeds and varieties exhibit various different qualities and personality traits, making it pretty easy to find the perfect one for you (if you look long enough).

Cats

Cats are known to have more independent, discriminating personalities. Felines will largely take care of themselves, requiring little to no bathing or grooming on your part. Cats are extremely easy to house-train and are generally very clean animals. Cats tend to be better pets for households where nobody is home for the majority of the day. Some cats, however, do require much attention and affection by way of petting and playing. Even with cats mostly taking care of themselves, there will be expenses to consider. Every cat will need its own food and water bowls as well as its own kitty litter box, litter, food, shots and more.

Birds

There are many varieties of birds that make good pets for humans. Some of these include parakeets, finches or canaries. More exotic breeds found in homes are cockatoos and parrots. Birds tend to be pretty low-maintenance, but like other pets do require some care on your part. In addition to feeding and providing water, you will need to clean the bird's cage regularly and provide toys for its entertainment.

Other Pets

Other common pets in U.S. households include guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, iguanas, turtles, fish and others. With each of these types of pets it is very important to educate yourself on the care requirements and time/money commitments required.

Choosing Your Type of Pet

Whether you do all the reading and research on different types of pets or know from the very beginning (in your gut) which type of pet is right for you, you will eventually figure out if a cat, dog or other type of animal is right for you and your home. Once you have decided what you want to get, you must prepare you home. Go to your local library and look for a book on how to prepare your home for the type of pet you plan to get. You can also find online guides to help you prepare for your new family member. Once you have pet-proofed your home and stocked up on all the comforts to make your new pet feel at home, you're ready to start looking!

Adopt a Pet

Though pets of all types can easily be found in pet stores, adopting a pet from your local animal shelter, an animal foster home or even from a family that can no longer keep its pet is best. By adopting rather than buying a pet, you will be providing a home for an animal that may otherwise run into an unfavorable fate. Also, adopting a pet in need of a home is very likely to be more affordable than buying a puppy or kitten from a pet store. Check you local SPCA Web site to see if animals available for adoption are listed. Many times these sites include pictures of the critters that are looking for homes.

Don't forget to reach out to your local community. Many times families have to give up pets due to circumstances that are out of their control. They may find themselves having to move into a home where animals are not allowed. Perhaps a member of the family has developed an uncontrollable allergy to the family pet. In these cases, families may be looking for good homes for the pets they have lovingly cared for up until now. By checking your local classifieds or bulletin boards at your pet supply store, you can connect with these families and possibly find your perfect pet!

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Keep your pet healthy during the winter

Whether it's curling up by the fire, brewing hot apple cider, or bundling up in a soft cashmere sweater, cold weather comforts help us through brisk autumn days and cold winter nights. Throw in flu season, too many parties, and the extra work of holiday preparations and it's a wonder we make it through the winter at all. Just as we have learned how to manage our time, take precautions to stay warm, and prevent and treat colds and flu, similar care is needed to ensure the comfort and health of our pets, too.
Fabulous fur
Ever wondered about the terrier in the sweater vest or collie in a coat? Are these just silly ways pet owners express their individuality or do they really keep Spot warm? A cold-blooded pet like a snake or a tropical fish will vary with the temperature of the surroundings, which means you can simply turn up the heat. But dogs and cats, while they do have fur, are warm-blooded and not immune to temperature changes and may need an extra layer for warmth. And regardless of the season, animals need time outdoors. If you have outdoor pets, be extra careful to bring them in when it rains or snows. A wet bunny can get hypothermia and a frozen kitty is no good. If it's especially cold where you live, look to your pet to gauge comfort levels and plan time and dress accordingly. A few factors can determine how to dress your pet for winter play.
Shiver me timbers
If your pet is small and short-haired, he's likely sensitive to the cold. The same goes for older animals and those that may be frail or ill. You can't take your pet's temperature by touching her nose, but you can feel her body to see if she's shivering. Shivers mean sweaters - especially if you live in a cold climate (the short Southern California "winter" is not sweater weather). Larger and long-haired pets can usually tolerate colder weather for longer periods of time, and even though you might bundle up, your pet has a long, thick coat and is set for long winter walks. Just pay attention to walking over ice and snow: paws do get cold and sharp objects may be hiding under the powder.
Save my skin!
When the bite of winter kicks in, many animals get dry skin. A few simple steps can help prevent and treat this condition: bathe as seldom as possible. Cats, of course, wash themselves. Brush your dog or cat to remove dead hair and dander. Try using a moisturizing shampoo made for pets (they have a different pH from humans, so don't even think about it!) Finally, eat right: quality food improves nutrition and promotes shiny, healthy fur. You may want to consult with your veterinarian about adding vitamins and fatty acids to Fido's food.
Brew a stew
After a jaunt in the snow or splashing in puddles, be sure to dry your pet with towels or a hair dryer. Although she shakes excess water from her fur, Bella may still be damp. Treat her to warm water in winter, and make sure outdoor water bowls don't freeze. Try heating up a can of soup (chicken noodle is a doggy delight) and mixing in dry food (or wet) for a satisfying stew. You can also add vitamins and veggies.
Extra holiday tips
With all the decorations and festivities, watch for sneaky pets. Munching on decorations, gnawing on a Christmas tree branch, licking electrical cords, these are all interesting to pets and you must watch out for them. Don't let your pet drink from the tree water, be careful they don't nibble on the poinsettia, and make sure they don't run out when the guests come!

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Spaying and Neutering

Did you know that each day in the U.S., an average of 10,000 humans are born? Sure, that’s a lot, but get this: on the same day in the same country, an average of 70,000 puppies and kittens are also born! Do the math. As long as these birth rates exist, there will never be enough homes for all the animals. The result is that each day, American animal shelters are forced to destroy approximately 30,000 dogs and cats.
If this makes you sad, you’re not alone. These numbers would go way down if every pet owner just got their animal friend spayed or neutered. Here’s what you need to know:
What is spaying and neutering?
The terms “spaying” and “neutering” mean the surgical removal of a pet’s reproductive organs. Basically, when an animal gets spayed or neutered it will no longer be able to have babies. “Spaying” applies to female animals and “neutering” is used with males. Most people focus on the importance of spaying and neutering dogs and cats, but rabbits are also animals who benefit from this.
Why is spaying and neutering important?
Did you know that:

• In 7 years, 1 unspayed female dog and her offspring can produce over 4,000 dogs?
• In 9 years, 1 unspayed female cat, her unneutered mate, and all their offspring can produce over 11,606,077 cats?

To put it simply, spaying and neutering reduces the population of unwanted and homeless animals in the world.
It has other benefits for your pet, too. Spayed animals have a lower risk of some cancers and other illnesses, and neutered animals don’t have as many problems with aggression, fighting, roaming, and certain diseases.
The idea that spaying and neutering is “mean” or doesn’t let your pet experience a full life is just a myth! In reality, neutered and spayed pets tend to live happier, healthier, longer lives.
When should your pet be spayed?
Most veterinarians recommend that female cats and dogs be spayed before they’re six months old and males between six months to a year old. But it’s never too late to have this done, even if your pet has already had a litter or two. If you adopt an animal from a shelter or rescue group, chances are that you won’t be able to take him or her home until the operation is performed.
How expensive is it? What if my family can’t afford it?
Most animal hospitals will do this surgery for under $100, but you can have it done at a discount or even for free. Call your local shelter or animal control department to see if they offer coupons (sometimes called “vouchers”) to help cover the cost of spaying and neutering at area vets. You can also contact SPAY USA at www.spayusa.org or 1-800-248-SPAY (1-800-248-7729) for advice on where to go for help in your town.
But won’t I miss out on the fun of having puppies, kittens, or bunnies around?
Well, yes. But remember that animals are little for only a few months. At some point you have to find homes for these babies or commit to keeping them yourself. As they get bigger, they’ll require more time and energy, especially if you already have one or more pets. So that’s a lot of work for just a short amount of baby animal time! Here’s an idea: if you’re really dying to have a litter of kittens running around your house, talk to your family about being a temporary “foster home” for rescued baby animals. Many shelters and rescue groups are always in need of these!

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Taking Care of Our Pets

Now that you’ve brought your new friend home, it’s time for the fun part -- and the hard part! This is your chance to really prove to your parents, yourself, and your pet that you’re a responsible guardian.
It’s a lot to live up to, but don’t worry…you can do it! All you need to know is what your pet’s needs are, then meet them. Basically, most pets rely on us for:
Food

• Be sure you know the diet and feeding schedule of your new pet. Get information from your veterinarian or the pet store.
  
• Most animals need to be fed once or twice a day. Sometimes baby animals need to be fed more.
  
• Don’t ever give your pet table scraps -- people food (especially chocolate!) can make most animals sick.
  
• Introduce changes to food or feeding time gradually -- food changes can be stressful for an animal.
  
• Feed your pets in a quiet, protected place, so they feel safe and comfortable when they eat.

Water

• Make sure your pet has plenty of clean, fresh water.
  
• Water should be changed at least twice a day.
  
• If your pet is a fish or turtle and lives in water, be sure to clean the tank at least once a week.

Shelter

• Your pet needs a place to call home -- whether that’s a tank, cage, or doghouse.
  
• If your dog or cat spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure shelter is available at all times. Shelter keeps pets protected from cold, wind, and rain in the winter and from the harsh hot sun in the summer.
  
• Even if your pet spends most of the day outdoors, he should sleep indoors at night. This will protect him from cars, bad weather, and animals such as coyotes that will attack pets.
  
• When it comes to shelter, remember that animals who are treated like part of the family are better-adjusted and will be more closely bonded to you. And after all, your pet IS part of your family, right?

Potty

• All animals need a place where they can go to the bathroom. Unless you’re able to train them to use the toilet, cats need a litter box, gerbils need a cage, and dogs need to go outside or in a special lined area.
  
• Make sure you create a safe place for your pet’s bathroom needs and -- this is REALLY important -- clean it regularly! After all, think about how gross it is to use a toilet that doesn’t flush.
  
• If you have a dog and live in an apartment with no yard, you need to make sure your dog is walked often. If he goes in a public place, be sure to pick it up and dump it in a trashcan.

Exercise

• Dogs need plenty of exercise. Physical activity keeps them healthy, happy, and fit. Make sure you walk, run, hike, or play fetch with your dog every day. Not only is exercise good for your pup, but it’s good for you, too!
  
• Cats, especially if they live indoors, also love some quality playtime with you. This is a chance to have fun and get creative with cool cat toys.
  
• Rodents like hamsters and gerbils will thank you for putting an exercise wheel in their cage to make life a little more interesting.

Grooming

• It’s a good idea to brush and comb your pets every day to get rid of loose or shedding hair.
  
• Poke around to check for fleas, ticks, leaves, and other things that might be tangled in your pet’s fur.
  
• If you can, bathe dogs once a month and cats every few months. But don’t overdo it! Too many baths take away the natural oils from a pet’s skin and can cause itching or rashes.
  
• Cats will have fewer hairballs and shed less if they’re combed on a regular basis.
  
• If your pooch has killer doggie breath, try brushing his teeth when you bathe him.

Training, if you have a dog

• Yes, Bowzer is your buddy, but you need to be his boss! If you don’t set up rules for him to follow, he may act aggressively and out of control. You don’t want your dog dashing into oncoming traffic, jumping on little kids, or growling at your neighbors, right? So you need to set up rules for him to follow and help him follow them.
  
• You can do this in a very gentle manner without raising your voice or becoming mean. Work with your parents to determine the rules of the house. If there’s a “no dogs on the sofa” policy, don’t let Spot on the couch the minute your parents leave the room. It’s best when all of you work together to teach your new family member how to behave.
  
• An obedience class is a great way to learn how to speak a dog’s language and teach her the rules of your household. But don’t expect her to be perfect -- there will be accidents! Just be patient and loving, and eventually the hard work will pay off.

Health care

• Just like we need annual checkups with our doctor and dentist, most pets need regular checkups, too.
  
• Veterinarians, or animal doctors, check your pet's general health, can answer any questions you might have, and make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date.
  
• If you bring home a new dog or cat, you should take him to the vet right away to get checked out.

Love & affection

• Just like people, pets thrive on attention! The more love you give, the more you’ll get back.
  
• Give your pet plenty of hugs, kisses, gentle pats, and love. Okay, so maybe you can’t pet a fish, but you can still show you care by talking to it, watching it, and feeding it special treats.

Get your house ready for a new pet
Before you bring a new animal into your home, make sure your house is pet-ready. Take a tour around your home and yard with your parents, using this as a checklist:

• Are there any holes, broken concrete, drains, or swimming pools that your pet could fall into or get stuck in? They need to be fixed before your pet arrives.
  
• Are there any gaps in the fence, or a broken gate, that might allow your new pet to get out of your yard?
  
• Are there any poisons, like snail bait, antifreeze, or other toxic chemicals just sitting out? These things are super-poisonous to animals. Make sure containers are stored away in locked cupboards far out of reach.
  
• Check for dangling electrical cords in the house or outside. Puppies, kittens, and rodents love to chew them, thinking they’re toys. Cover cords or tape them down with industrial tape.
  
• How about your toys? Do you have any Legos or other small pieces lying around that an animal could choke on? Keep your things out of reach of little paws.
  
• What about stuff that breaks? If you don’t want something to get knocked over or stepped on -- maybe your mom’s valuable vase or your favorite model airplane -- put it up high or away for a little while.

Pet "Don’ts"

• Don’t use insect sprays and weed killers around your pets or allow antifreeze to spill in any area where pets hang out. If animals get poisons on their fur or paws, then lick themselves, they can get very sick or even die.
  
• Never leave a pet alone in a car on a hot day…even with the windows cracked open. Temperatures can go up quickly and cause an animal to overheat, which is sometimes fatal.
  
• Don’t ever feed your pet chocolate, no matter how much they might beg. Dogs can’t digest chocolate and can die from eating too much.
  
• Don't let your dog wander the neighborhood without you. She could get lost, hurt, or catch a disease from another animal. Always keep her on a leash when in public areas, like a park or busy street.
  
• Never give pets human medicine. Keep all medicines -- human or pet -- out of your pet's reach.

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