It has been awhile since you have had a conversation with your friends and family about the volunteering that you do tat the local human society. Recently, however, you have been promoted to the position of canine companion and you now get to walk the dogs, sit with them in their kennels, and provide other enrichment activities. Today, in fact, was your first day that you were able to sit with a dog that you have had your eye on for awhile. His a sweet and loving young puppy who loves to give kisses. You have decided that your mission after these companion sessions to remind your family and friends about the amazing animals that are available for very affordable prices.
You are likely a little nostalgic for these kinds of introductions because this is the Gotcha Day for your latest adopted pet. Your own small lab that you adopted a year ago is growing into his floppy feet and has made a great companion for you on the weekends when your two boys are at their dad’s house. This tiny but mighty guy loves to snuggle and on the long cold winter nights that is a welcome feeling. He also loves to play hide and seek with your older dog who has been with the family for a couple of years, and he is a great backyard companion to the boys in the backyard when they come home from school.
Animal Lovers Are Often the Greatest Advocates for the Furriest of Friends
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is an organization that helps many people find a way to serve the dogs and cats that they love so much. Unfortunately, your local SPCA is often in need of many volunteers as well as supplies. During February, the month of love, maybe this is a perfect time to make sure that you are doing everything you can to help your furriest of friends.
From veterinary hospitals for long stays and procedures to vet clinics for short visits when owners invest in spay and neuter costs, there are many kinds of places where people can take their pets to make sure they are as healthy as possible. Animals, like humans, require special medical care and regular preventative care if they are going to live a happy life.
The sad truth, of course, is that there are many owners who simply do not give their animals the kind of care that they deserve. Fortunately, there are groups like local SPCA agencies that are available to help make sure that every pet is getting the kind of care that they need. When neighbors find out, for instance, that a pet is being left outside during the day during the coldest of winter months, a local SPCA can help find the best solution that will help guarantee the safety of that animal.
Consider these facts and figures about the many ways that pet owners need to monitor for the health conditions of the pets that they own and love:
- It is estimated that 80% of dogs and 70% cats show signs of dental disease by age three. This kind of disease is problematic because it can lead to abscesses, loose teeth, and chronic pain. Regular dental check ups for your pets can help avoid these problems.
- Although veterinarians explain the importance of brushing pet’s teeth, 65% of pet owners do not brush their dog’s teeth.
- Flossing is not essential, but you can reach 90% of the surface of a dog’s teeth just by brushing.
- As many as 76% of dogs suffering from severe dysplasia and arthritis can live comfortable, happy live with the proper management. To get this kind of pain management, however, it is important to visit your local vet clinic.
- Nearly 25% of pet dogs in the U.S. are diagnosed with some form of arthritis.
- More than in any other country, there are over 75 million pet dogs in the U.S.
With the help of a local SPCA agency or a veterinarian it is possible to make sure that you are getting the care that your animal needs, as well as those pets in your neighborhood who look like they are not.