After a malnourished and severely dehydrated kitten, almost at the point of death, was returned to Friends of Animals it occurred to us that perhaps there are others who aren't aware their pets need food that is nutritionally balanced to meet the specific needs of the species. The starving kitten, fed a sadly inadequate diet of table food, (including mashed potatoes and chicken noodle soup) left him defenseless against disease. All a kitten needs after weaning is a quality brand kitten food, and water. He doesn't need milk, and often becomes lactose intolerant after weaning.
Friend of Animals asks adopters not feed their pets generic food! A quality pet food isn't a lot more expensive when you follow the recommended feeding instructions. Your animals do not require great quantities of food when it is nutritionally well balanced.
If you have adopted an animal from Friends of Animals (or from anywhere else), and if it develops an illness, please do not hesitate to call us or a veterinarian immediately. There is no such thing as a dumb question. First in our hearts and minds is the welfare of the animals. We are here to help and advise. Our number is (218) 879-1655.
The following are symptoms of illness. Because the skin is one of the first systems to be affected by disease, a sick animal often has a dull and patchy coat. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, persistent and severe vomiting (with or without diarrhea) and prolonged diarrhea. Red, watery eyes, which may be accompanied by nasal discharge or sneezing, also can indicate problems.
A pet can provide companionship, joy, unconditional love, a sense of safety, and often are a service to the disabled. Animals are fun, and they make us feel good.
Do not adopt an animal on impulse. When you acquire a pet you commit to its care for the lifespan of the animal. Sometimes that can be up to 20 years. Remember that cats and dogs, feel pain, fear and loneliness. They need proper shelter from the heat of summer, and the brutal cold of Minnesota winters. They eagerly respond to kindness and love. Above all remember they are not disposable!
BEFORE YOU ADOPT STOP AND THINK:
· Can you afford this animal? Can you afford the vet costs: check-ups, necessary shots, spaying and/or neutering, emergency visits to vet?
· Do you have room? Does everyone in the family want this animal?
· Do you have the time to spend housebreaking, training, and feeding?
· Are you gone all day? Do you frequently work late? What will you do with your pet in your absences?
· If you rent do you know if your landlord allows pets?
When the time comes for your family to adopt, talk to a veterinarian about what kind of pet will be compatible with your family and your lifestyle. Adopting a pet should be a family decision taking into consideration the amount of responsibility each person is willing to assume. Those who choose a pet on impulse often fall out of love with it, then the pet is either abandoned, or turned over to a shelter and ultimately put to death.
It is very important that you spay or neuter your animals! In doing so you will be part of the solution instead of part of the escalating problem of pet overpopulation.
