Volvo OPINIONS Forum

I look at the pets section daily, I see ads from people who are looking for a dog or cat, not too specific, just "a small dog that wants a large yard with some kids to love on it, stay at home mom, etc." COME ON!, they havent looked at the local shelter, because they would surely find one. Shelter fees are $85-100 but that includes mandatory spay/neuter, etc. SOME of these people (I can tell some ads are written and re-worded by the same people) are wanting a purebred looking dog for cheap to resell for a profit, sell to animal testing labs or to use as baiting for their fighting dogs ( I didn't say pitbulls). I have heard on CL that one guy even brings his little kids to convince the owners that he just wants a family pet, not for the above-mentioned uses. Thats why you should never give a dog "free to good home". Network with friends if you HAVE to give up a pet. If behaviour is an issue, check out my guru Cesar Milan the Dog Whisperer, he is magic while using common sense. His methods would work well with small children too! Just give them rules, boundries and limitations. Exercise, disipline(not beatings but tricks,etc and then affection in that order. If you tire your dog out, he won't get into bad habits(usually from boredom). Check out his tv show on National Geographic or check your library for his books and dvds.

For your pets sake, put a tag with your phone number on his collar, even if he's an indoor dog. Its heartbreaking how many turn up at Noah's Ark weekly with a collar but no tags! We are a no-kill shelter but the pound is not, unfortunatley. Remember don't breed or buy while shelter pets die. Damn greedy puppy mills- I see too much neglect and abuse on Animal Planet Cops. Thats not the same as hoarders who have good intentions, but get overwhelmed.I could be a hoarder if I was single but momma keeps me in check,LOL.

Animals deserve to be treated humanely, all they want to do is shower you with LOVE!!!

Mark
http://dog-talker.com/