Are you ready to be a responsible pet owner?
A trial began this week in the case of Wolfeboro woman who is accused of animal abuse.
Christina Fay went on trial Monday on 12 misdemeanor animal cruelty charges brought after 84 Great Danes were found living in filth and suffering from sores, infections and other health problems.
Former employee Marilyn Kelly described feces on the walls up to her waist and said she saw a dog with puncture wounds that Fay had stapled shut, reports the Associated Press. The lead investigator, Officer Michael Strauch, said the filth was unbelievable and Fay's bed was covered in urine.
Fay, a breeder who has pleaded not guilty, has said she took great care of her dogs.
Given that anyone accused of a crime is considered innocent until proven otherwise, we are not looking to pass judgment on this particular case.
We do, however, believe that this case should serve as a reminder of the responsibilities we take when we adopt an animal.
One is to acquire any animal from a reputable source. This may be a breeder, a pet store or a rescue animal from a shelter.
Improperly bred dogs, for example, can suffer myriad problems which may not be obvious at first.
A good breeder will not use dogs that have known genetic defects to breed more puppies, writes author Brian Spilner. This is why many breeders will guarantee the health of their pups. However, a backyard breeder that is uneducated in the matter will continue to produce unhealthy dogs, especially since many of the disorders do not show up until later in life. Hip dysplasia, eye problems, and heart problems are all genetic disorders that have made their way into the bloodlines of breeds. Not only is this adding to the pet overpopulation (where many end up being euthanized), but it is adding unhealthy animals to the problem.
If you are looking to buy from a pet store, ask for the source and history of their animals. Do they buy from a reputable breeder? Have their animals had appropriate vaccinations?
Animal shelters are a frequent choice for those looking to adopt. We are privileged here in the Seacoast to have a number of reputable shelters which work to match the right pet to the right owner or family.
The Cocheco Valley Humane Society is located at 262 County Farm Road, Dover. Adoptions are also available from the New Hampshire SPCA, 104 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham. In Southern Maine, there is Another Chance Animal Rescue, 37 Market Street, North Berwick.
But before you adopt, you need to understand the commitment.
From the American Veterinary Medical Foundation comes some advice:
1. Commit
• Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.
• Select a pet that's suited to your home and lifestyle.
• Keep only the type and number of pets for which you can provide appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.
• Commit to the relationship for the life of your pet(s).
• Provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation.
• Properly socialize and train your pet.
2. Invest
• Recognize that pet ownership requires an investment of time and money.
• Make sure your pet receives preventive health care (vaccinations, parasite control, etc.), as well as care for any illnesses or injuries.
• Budget for potential emergencies.
3. Obey
• Clean up after your pet.
• Obey all local ordinances, including licensing, leash requirements and noise control.
• Don't allow your pet to stray or become feral.
4. Identify
• Make sure your pet is properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and keep its registration up-to-date.
5. Limit
• Don't contribute to our nation's pet overpopulation problem: limit your pet's reproduction through spay/neuter, containment or managed breeding.
6. Prepare
• Prepare for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.
• Make alternate arrangements if you can no longer provide care for your pet.
• Recognize any decline in your pet's quality of life and make timely decisions in consultation with a veterinarian.
For more help and suggestions, visit www.americanhumane.org.