Pets may be cute as a button, but they're not objects

The next time Kitty or Doggy makes soft eyes at you, appreciate it fully! Pets must have very big hearts to continue loving humans unconditionally. Some of their stories are heartbreaking... Cats and dogs are thrown out of the windows of moving cars, abandoned in fields in closed up cardboard boxes and/or struck regularly by their owners... as if they were objects. Although most animals aren't subjected to so much cruelty, we sometimes forget that they need far more than a roof and some food to be healthy and happy. 

1.      Pets are members of the family. They're not toys, trophies or body guards. They're living beings and they need their daily dose of attention, security, care and affection. 

2.      They need clear, realistic rules that are applied with gentleness and consistency. Otherwise, they can get confused, which can become dangerous to them and to you. 

3.      Like all living beings, cats and dogs have their own personality and background. Don't expect an energetic pup to be a floor potato. Don't expect your new pet to cuddle with you on the first day if she's been severely mistreated by her former family. Each pet has their own personality, needs and rhythm. Ask as much as you can about them before you adopt them, because it's a lifelong responsibility! 

4.      Forget your presumptions. A pit bull isn't necessarily aggressive, a labrador isn't necessarily docile, all cats are not independent, etc. Many elements can influence an animal's personality and behaviour - not only species or race. 

5.      Most cats and dogs love to have fun. Some may have been through difficult circumstances in the past, but they're more than ready to start a new chapter when the time is right. Let them be wildly silly from time to time! 

6.      Pets need food that's healthy and adapted to them. They wouldn't think about offering you bits of their food and, although they may act otherwise, they'd be grateful if you'd return the favour because they'd be much healthier! 

7.      Animals need to exercise regularly. Like us, they can become anxious, grouchy and chubby if they don't move enough. They count on you to provide them with plenty of space and play time. 

8.      They also count on you for a regular vet exam. They can't speak and their illnesses are not always apparent. 

9.      Pets need stimulation and many enjoy new experiences and new toys (and not necessarily the most expensive ones - for a dog, a new tennis ball will do just fine and for a cat, a ball made with crumpled paper and catnip or a plastic bottle cap can become exciting adventures!). 

Their deepest wish is to live by your side in respect and unconditional love, until their last breath. Give them this chance - they deserve it!