Mount Pleasant Pets 2021-22

NN MP PETS www.MtPleasant.Pet | www.MPVets.Pet | www.facebook.com/MPpets F E A T U R E When we consider adding a pet to our household, there are many factors involved beyond family composition and lifestyle in general — although these should be our top two considerations. There are multiple routes, and we can become paralyzed by the options. For those who recognize that Lowcountry shelters are burdened and over capacity most of the time, adoption is the only option for bringing home a new pet. Friends and family will encourage — and demand — that we adopt from our local shelter and, thank- fully, many of us do. But there are situations where a mixed breed isn’t ex- actly the end goal. Perhaps you have spent years admiring a particular breed for its athleticism because you want to start training a pup as a “flying dog” for frisbee competi- tions. Maybe you are completely taken with the beauty of a sighthound, like an Afghan, or perhaps you have a desire to show dogs competitively. For other people, they had a particular breed as a child and want to repeat that expe- rience with their own children. No matter the reasoning, everyone should have the guilt-free opportunity to select the pet that is right for them. But how do you know which path to choose? As someone who spends several hours each week in our local shelters, I can attest that rescue and adoption are wonderful opportunities to add to your home and save two animal lives: the dog or cat you bring home and the one you make space for at the shelter. Most shelters offer exten- sive resources for training, veterinary care and everything you would need to raise a happy, healthy pet. And most also have puppies and kittens in their care so you can raise an animal from infancy, if that is your primary goal. Adoption fees are a small price to pay to save the life of a pet who will come to you vaccinated and spayed/neutered. If you are otherwise committed to finding a purebred pet, do your research. Be aware that pets who are sold to pet stores often come from puppy mills. Understand that puppy mill dogs generally live miserable lives, and the only way to end puppy mills is to stop the demand. Advocates are working tirelessly to ensure they will someday become a thing of the past. The differences between puppy mills, pet stores and responsible breeders are vast. Responsible breeders are those who wish to better their breed by ensuring only the best stock reproduces. They can trace family lines back several generations, and they most likely offer registration with one of the kennel clubs, such as American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club or even a rare breed registry. Some breeds are not recognized by the kennel clubs, such as designer dogs, as they are typically mixed breeds. Responsible breeders en- sure their animals receive top-quality veterinary care, often including certifications for orthopedic concerns or vision and hearing testing for breeds prone to disorders. They will have parent animals on site and ensure proper socialization of offspring with humans. They will offer a health guaran- tee, as well as a return policy to ensure the lifelong safety of their line. But their fee will be higher; that is a certainty. The bottom line is that the only way to know which pet is right for you is to drill down, learn about breed traits — with both dogs and cats — and determine if it’s a good fit for your home, family and lifestyle. If you are a couch potato who likes to watch TV, adopt a senior pet who will enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, instead of a border collie puppy who will want you to jog several miles a day and then play fetch for hours. Whatever you do, weigh your options and meet as many animals as it takes to find the special fur baby who clicks with you and your family. After all, pets are for life. U By Jeanne Taylor HOW MUCH IS THAT DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW? FINDING YOUR FAMILY’S Perfect Pet