VETERINARY CLINIC
Adoption Requirements
On a daily basis, people call the shelter, asking what the requirements are for adopting an animal from our shelter and are often surprised by the answers. So without further ado-this is what we ask for …AND WHY!
1.) The adoption fee for our dogs is $150 and $60 for our cats. WHY ? Actually the adoption fees don’t even cover the hundreds sometimes thousands that we spend getting the animals ready for adoption. All of our animals have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and dewormed.
2.) Everyone in the household needs to meet the animal prior to adoption. WHY? Since the animal will be part of your family, it is important that everyone in the household approves of the animal AND that the animal approves of everyone in the household.
3.) If you rent or live in a condo, we will need to check with your landlord/condo association. WHY? Because we represent the animals, it is important for us to hear first hand that the particular animal has been approved. Sometimes there are weight or breed restrictions that will affect approval of the adoption. It is difficult on the dog to have to be returned and we prefer to avoid this situation.
4.) If you own your property we may do a property check. WHY? Believe it or not we have run into situations where people have been less than honest. Rather than have an animal go to a place where he may not be allowed, we’d just as soon have confirmation prior to the adoption.
5.) If you own an animal, or have in the recent past, we will need to contact your veterinarian’s office. WHY? We want to make sure that you are a responsible owner; that your animal was spayed/ neutered, up to date on his vaccines and on heartworm prevention.
6.) If you are looking to adopt a dog and you already have one at home, we ask that you bring your dog in for a meet and greet prior to the adoption. WHY? More than anyone, your dog will be spending the most time with your new pup. Just because your dog “Loves ALL dogs” doesn’t mean that he/she are going to like THIS one. It is better for both dogs’ physical and mental health to find this out ahead of time.
7.) Our adoption fee for dogs ($150) and cats ($60) are the same regardless of the breed/ size/ length of time they’ve been with us. WHY? We believe that all of our animals have the same value, whether they are a pit or a poodle, a tabby or a tiger.
8.) Even after the aformentioned requirements have been met, there is still a chance that the adoption may not go through. WHY? Utimately we are looking to place an animal in their “forever home”. Because we have spent so much time with the animals, we know their specific traits and special needs. Additonally most of our staff has had formal training in animal behavior and know to look for certain behaviors to make us aware of whether or not the animal is at ease. Please keep in mind that we will try to work with you to make every adoption a success.
Adolescence is Only a Phase
It’s funny-what was adorable behavior in your puppy at six weeks, is downright annoying at 6 months. So what happened? Well, for lack of a better term, their “puppy license” expired. Puppies are given a puppy pass because well, frankly-they’re adorable. Nature is no fool- it does this for a reason. Then, sometime between 5 and 6 months, your dog begins to experience adolescence and you’re left asking, “Who is this monster and what have he done to my dog?” Suddenly, your dog won’t come when called or possibly he begins to exert his authority just a bit too much. Take a deep breath and realize that this is a normal part of your canine’s development and not a reason to surrender your pup to the nearest shelter. Our best teachers for how to deal with this actually comes from our adult dogs who understand this behavior and react accordingly. When dealing with puppies, an adult dog will tolerate an occasional gnawing of the ear or body slam but begins to set clear boundaries when this same behavior is exhibited by a slightly older, slightly larger dog. If you think about it, it’s not much different from how humans handle adolescence; a baby grabbing a fistful of hair will be tolerated more than a 12 year old doing the same act. This is mainly because they have developed the capacity to receive instruction on appropriate behavior. Because of this, clear consistent boundaries must be set and adhered to and, before you know it, that “little monster” has grown up to become your well behaved pal.
Heartworm Prevention is Year Round
Aah…the weather is cooler and the windows are open, letting in the autumn breeze. Unfortunately, in Florida and much of the south, mosquitoes are still up to their old tricks, taking a “bite ” out of our good time. What may be an annoyance for humans, however, can prove deadly to our pets. Heartworm larva is deposited into dogs when they are bitten by an infected mosquito. Within six months the larva grow into adult heartworms causing severe damage to the animal’s heart and lungs.
Treatment for heartworms is costly and lengthy, taking up to 2 months to treat. However, Left untreated, the disease will prove deadly. Prevention by comparison is safe and inexpensive and, if administered properly, is extremely effective. Talk to your veterinarian today about heartworm treatment. Your pet with thank you.
Here Kitty, Kitty, Kitty…
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Because Cats appear to be so independent, we often forget that they need enrichment as much as any other animal. First and foremost is the positioning of our cat’s 3 basic resources-food, water and elimination. Because cats are prey as well as predators, they feel most vulnerable when eating, drinking and eliminating. To avoid this feeling, position these resources away from areas where you cat is likely to be startled.
Scratching and climbing are natural to your cat, so rather than scolding him for climbing where he shouldn’t be, provide an appropriate space where he can do both such as a cat perch and a scratching post.
Auditory (hearing) and olfactory (smelling) stimulation can also aid in your cat’s enrichment. Turning on the radio or television and/or providing your cat with some Valerian or catnip may be just the thing he needs.
Of course, we can’t forget about the feline- human bond. Structured play and grooming are just two ways to interact with your cat. Remember, providing love and attention is a two-way street that can lead to a long and happy life for both you and your cat.
What’s That Smell?
You come home from a long day at work and your dog is ready to greet you with kisses But wait-what’s that smell? Yep it’s Fido’s breath. If you could bottle that scent, there would be no need for home security systems. One whiff and the crooks would be running! But what about the underlying problems? Dental disease affects up to 80% of pets over the age of 3 and, just like humans, there can be serious consequences to poor dental health; Tartar and any affected areas contain a multitude of bacteria that can travel to other parts of the body. Luckily, dental disease progresses in stages. If caught early, you can prevent further damage. Dental cleanings are available at Pet Pal Veterinary Clinic and appointments can be made by calling (727) 328-7729. Contact our clinic today-your dog will breathe a sigh of “non-fish smelling” relief!
HEAT KILLS!
In the summer, the heat inside cars and trucks heats up quickly. When the temperature outside is 85, the temperature inside the vehicle (even with the windows slightly open) can reach 102 in ten minutes. Within 30 minutes, it can reach 120 degrees. An animal in a closed vehicle will develop heatstroke and eventually, its brain will literally “cook”.
Is you are thinking of taking your dog out with you and leaving him in the car while you just run a simple errand-DON’T. If you see an animal in heat distress in a car, notify a law enforcement official IMMEDIATELY and then call Pinellas County Animal Services (727) 586-2600. It is against the law (Ord No. 92-15s 11,3-10-92) and violations are punishable by Criminal Penalty and/or Civil Penalty.
Why Older Dogs Rock
Puppies and kittens have the “cute appeal” but I’ll let you in on a secret…older animals rock!!! Why you ask? Well, let me put it this way…
#8 We are WAY over the chewing phase. #7 We generally walk better on a leash. #6 We have fewer accidents -pleeease-how juvenile!! #5 We are already familiar with people, other dogs, etc. #4 You know what you’re getting when you adopt an older dog #3 We really aren’t THAT old-1 canine year doesn’t really equal 7 human years-heck we’re just hitting our prime! #2 Some else has already done the training for you and…the #1 one reason for adopting an older dog-If you adopt us, we will love you for life-and that’s a promise!
Microchips are Worth their Weight in Gold!
During the summer months, when kids are at home from school, gates can accidentally be left open. Plus, as we all know, Florida is notorious for its thunderstorms. Animals unknowingly run for cover and can easily get lost. A microchip will bring them home safely to you. Micrcochips can be inserted at any vet’s office, including Pet Pal’s Affordable Veterinary Care Clinic (727) 328-7729. Don’t wait-it’s easy, safe and affordable. Please read our summer newsletter to find out how a microchip reunited a local man with his dog.
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