Adopting a dog is a wonderful thing, but bringing home a rescue dog requires a little understanding, a lot of patience, plenty of time, and buckets of love.  Here are a few suggestions to make the process easier on you both.

SUPPLIES NEEDED

Before you pick up your new dog, you’ll need to make sure you have a few things.  Don’t go overboard at this point. You can pick up additional items as needed or wanted in the coming weeks.  Necessities are:

• Collar – Ask the shelter staff to measure your adopted pet’s neck. If this measurement is at the end of the range for a collar, go up one size. (For example, if the collar is 18” to 22”, and the neck measurement is 21.5”, choose the next size up.) Collars should be snug, but you should be able to put two fingers comfortably between the collar and the neck.
• Leash – Standard webbed or leather leash. Do NOT buy a retractable leash – these prevent you from having control of your dog, and can be dangerous to children and the pet.  See this article for a more detailed explanation. Best length, in my opinion, is 6 feet – long enough so that your pet can explore, but short enough so it’s easy to bring her under control.
• Dog Dishes – Both water and food bowls. Obviously, on the smaller side for small dogs, the larger side for the bigger ones. Check out the post “12 Best Pet Bowls” for ideas for different types of bowls available.
• Dog Bed or Blanket – A bed specifically made for dogs is not a necessity as most dogs are fine with curling up on an old blanket on the floor. Of course, if your new pet will sleep in a crate, you’ll need something soft to put inside. That being said, there are a lot of cute dog beds available for purchase now or later.
• Dog Food – If you’ve never had a dog before, ask friends or the shelter what they suggest. Also, no matter what your choice, purchase some of the dog food the shelter uses and gradually mix with what you intend to feed over the course of a week or 10 days. Too abrupt a change will give your pet diarrhea, which is NOT a pleasant way to start your lives together.

WHAT TO DO DURING THE FIRST 24 HOURS

Depending on the dog you’ve chosen, the first day can be stressful and a little less than fun for either of you. Shy dogs will often huddle in a corner, refusing to eat or drink. You may have to get these guys out to potty without waiting for them to ask. Hyper dogs may run through the house investigating, and knocking things over in their enthusiasm.  Many dogs, even those who are house broken, will seem to forget all their training and mark, either from fear, or the desire to mark everything as their own.

Remember, calm is the key.

THINGS TO AVOID WHEN BRINGING HOME A RESCUE DOG

There are a few things to avoid in the first days with a rescue dog:

• Never take your new dog on a walk away from your home during the first weeks. Remember, you are just another stop along what may have been a long string of temporary stops in his life. Your home isn’t his, yet, and won’t be for a while. Since this is the case, taking your new pet on a long walk risks permanent loss if they should happen to get away. Wait a few weeks, or even a few months, before you go to a dog park, or on a stroll away from home. Start with short walks with your house always in his sight.
• Don’t leave your new dog alone in the house for the first 3 or 4 days. That isn’t to say that the same person needs to remain home all the time, but there should always be someone there to encourage bonding with the family. Try to adopt at a time where one or more of you can take a few vacation days to acclimate the pup. Or, if someone in the house works from home, make sure they take frequent breaks to interact with the dog.

THE FIRST 24 HOURS AFTER BRINGING HOME A RESCUE DOG

Many dogs will react in the following ways during their first day home:

• They’ll stake out a place in the home where they feel secure. With my shy dog, it was a Grandfather Clock in the corner. The regular beat seemed to soothe her, and she refused (except for the potty breaks I insisted on), to leave its side. This is okay for the first few days. Make sure your new pet is drinking – if she isn’t eating, it’s not a major problem for a day or two. As she gets more accustomed to her surroundings, her appetite will pick up. Remember, eating and defecating puts your dog into a position of vulnerability – she’ll relax as time goes on.
• Want to be left alone. A new dog in your home is not used to the sights, smells, and noises that you take for granted yet. Make sure your dog is in an area where he can see, smell, and hear everything. But do not force him to interact, yet. A dog who was previously kept as an outdoor-only animal may be terrified of the television, or startled by a phone ringing or a toilet flushing.  Even dogs who have only known life inside a home need to get accustomed to the newness. Let your dog come to you if he wants attention – don’t force it on him. Curiosity will bring your dog out to investigate eventually – let him set the time table.
• Seek out their crate. This is for dogs who have been previously crate-trained. These pups may not want to leave the crate, even for food and walks. Of course, you’ll have to get them outside to potty on a regular basis, but make this as stress-free as possible, and allow them to return to their crate, if they want, as soon as you bring them in. Again, eventually they will want to explore – no need to rush this.

None of the above may apply if you’ve been lucky enough to adopt a dog who was always part of a loving family. Still, remember that even these guys will be missing their previous owners, and may try to return to them. Keep them close to home and on a secure leash until they’ve obviously become part of your family pack.

HOW TO INTRODUCE A NEW DOG TO YOUR HOME

As time passes – for some dogs, hours, for some, weeks – your dog will want to explore the home.  Now is the time to set boundaries. If you don’t want your new pet on the furniture, you will have to be diligent about making her get down every time she gets up. If there are certain rooms she is to stay out of, get a baby gate and actively discourage entry.

WHERE DOES YOUR RESCUE DOG SLEEP?

I am a firm believer in dogs sleeping in the bedroom with at least one member of the family. Remember, dogs are pack animals, and sleeping apart from the pack is unnatural for them. Whether they sleep on your bed, or on the floor in one of their own, is entirely up to you.  As with other furniture, this is the time to show your dog the rules of your home. Remember, it’s harder to change the rules than enforce them from the very beginning.

If your pet has been too frightened to leave his spot, as soon as he does it’s time to introduce him to his sleeping place. If you haven’t bought a dog bed, no worries, an old blanket on the floor will be fine. If he’s sleeping on your bed, you’ll have to decide what is most comfortable for you, and make sure he stays there. (A side note – I’ve found the smaller the dog, the more room they tend to take up.  It defies the laws of physics, but there it is.)

Of course, if your rescue dog has already been crate trained to sleep, please continue using this method. If possible, place the crate in your bedroom – this will still constitute sleeping with the pack and provide your pet with reassurance.

HOW TO HANDLE VISITORS TO THE HOME

Bringing home a rescue dog and acclimating her to your home and family is the first step.  Teaching her how to react to strangers in the home may take a little more time.  Since calm is the key for the first few weeks, limit, or eliminate altogether, visitors during this time.

When it’s time to welcome non-family members, below are a few suggestions:

• Gregarious, outgoing dogs will need to be taught not to jump up on visitors, not to knock you over on the way to answer the doorbell, and not to demand attention constantly.
• Shyer dogs, or those who have lived outdoors most of their lives, will need reassurance that strangers you invite into your home do not mean bad things. Some may hide (I had one who did this for years), some may bark incessantly, and some may growl or lunge.

Should any signs of aggression become apparent in these encounters, involve a professional dog trainer immediately. Each family has its own tolerance for bad behavior, but dangerous behavior, or behavior that could escalate to the danger zone should be corrected by a professional as soon as possible. Look for a positive reinforcement trainer in your area, and ask your friends, or on your local Facebook page for recommendations. You will have to commit some money and plenty of time – a trainer will work with you both.  Training without the owner present only teaches the dog to listen to the trainer.

FEEDING

If you have other pets, please use separate areas for feeding them. Even animals who get along can get into tiffs (or outright fights) if forced to compete for food. When I had three dogs, one ate on the back deck, one ate in the kitchen, and the other had her meals in the bedroom with the door closed. The closest they ever came to a full-blown dog fight (rather than just irritated grumbling), was when two of them were left in a small space together with the food preparation visible.  So, respect their need for solitude when eating.

VETERINARIAN VISIT

Don’t take your new dog to the vet in the first couple of weeks, unless there is a medical necessity for it. A get-to-know you visit can be scheduled once the pet is more comfortable with you and in the home. If you don’t currently have a vet, see How To Choose A Veterinarian here.

QUESTIONS ABOUT BRINGING HOME A RESCUE DOG

Unless you’ve adopted from your local government animal control where the staff is overworked, please feel free to call the shelter or rescue where you got your pet with questions. Believe me, they would much rather spend as much time as necessary on the phone with you than have the pet returned to the shelter. And most are very knowledgeable about things like training, feeding, and any other issues that may arise.

Above all, enjoy your rescue dog. The bond that will grow between you with time makes the extra effort at the beginning all worthwhile. And you can be proud knowing you have not only saved your rescue dog, but also freed up space at your rescue so that they can rescue another one.

UPDATED FOR 2021

Below is just a small smattering of inexpensive gifts for cat lovers in your life.  Perfect as teacher gifts, Secret Santa presents, holiday stocking stuffers, or hostess gifts, please browse the selection below.  There is no more appreciated gift to a cat loving friend than one which showcases that affection. Maybe you’ll want to buy an extra or two to keep on hand for a thoughtful last-minute gift.

Many of these would also be quite charming as “thank you” gifts to your local shelter workers.  They work hard, often for low pay, because of their love for animals – why not get them a special treat as a token of appreciation?

All the inexpensive gifts for cat lovers listed below are available through Etsy.  I have also chosen items that will ship relatively quickly so as not to disappoint a recipient due to late arrival.  All sellers have ratings of at least 4.5 stars.

I have also been careful not to list any strictly holiday gifts, so that you can return to this guide anytime you need inexpensive gifts for cat lovers.

As an Etsy Affiliate and a Lovimals Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

INEXPENSIVE GIFTS FOR CAT LOVERS – DINING UTENSILS UNDER $30.00

Cat Mom Poem Mug

Available in both 11 ounce and 15 ounce sizes, both are under $20.00.  This can be personalized with up to six cat names. There’s nothing like a unique present to bring a smile to someone’s face. Seller ships from the United States – delivery in one to two weeks.

Five Silly Siamese Kitties Mug

This one also comes in two sizes. Custom made at the time of orders; these are dishwasher safe. More of an art mug than any of those above, this would be a perfect gift for the cat lover who looks for the unusual.  Ships from the United States within 3 to 5 business days.

You Can Never Have Too Many Cats Mug

This mug is available in an 11 ounce size.  Ships in little over a week from order, shipped from the United States.  Available from UpliftingGiftShop through Etsy, this is one of many cat lover mugs they produce.

Orange and White Cat Mug

11 ounces. Unique handmade art from West Yorkshire in the United Kingdom, these can also be personalized by the artist. Since they ship from overseas, allow plenty of time to get this as a gift.

Ceramic Fat Cat Plate

Shipping from Poland, this handmade plate is listed as arriving within two weeks of order.  The seller, Lamabo Ceramics, has a 5-star rating with over 750 sales.  Perfect to add a little whimsey to a cat lovers kitchen.

INEXPENSIVE GIFTS FOR CAT LOVERS – WEARABLES UNDER $30.00

Black Cat Peek-A-Boo T-Shirt

This adorable embroidered t-shirt comes in Men’s sizes only, so order one size down for a woman’s shirt.  Comes in light gray or dark gray, and ships from the United States.  A cute gift for a cat-loving friend. This seller has over 1,700 sales on Etsy.

Cat Mama Sweatshirt

This one comes from an Etsy seller with a 5-star review and over 4,000 sales.  Shipping from the United States, there is plenty of time for it to get here for holiday giving, or any special occasion.  Comes in 10 colors.  For a little extra, you can get this design in a hoodie.

Cat Novelty Customizable Socks

I have to admit I’m a sucker for novelty socks and earrings. These are from Lovimals – a company which specializes in gifts personalized with your pet’s face.  Just upload a photo of your (or your friend’s) pet, place the order, and you’ll soon have a unique gift, or present for yourself.  While you’re on the website, check out the rest of their products.

INEXPENSIVE GIFTS FOR CAT LOVERS – HOME DECOR UNDER $30.00

WALL SCULPTURE

This original and interesting wall hanging is handmade in Latvia.  Because of the distance, if you’re in the US, please allow at least three weeks for delivery.  This seller has 4.5 star reviews, and offers many other geometric wall hangings, including at least one other cat-themed one.

HAND-PAINTED SWITCH COVERS

These are handmade in the United States and come in different styles. They can be cleaned with soap and water, and each is signed.  She also takes custom orders, however, be aware that custom products have longer lead times. Seller has a 5-star rating.  These will brighten up the home of any true cat lover.

RUSTIC SWITCH PLATE

This one has more of a country feel.  Made of metal, with brass charms, this seller has a 5-star rating.  This ships within 2 weeks from Oregon.  A pretty addition to any country-themed home or room.

2022 CALENDAR

This novelty calendar was created by a former Disney Imagineer who now creates the sets for Robot Chicken. Full of creative images, Kat Evans, the artist, will be donating a percentage of sales to two Los Angeles, CA based cat charities – Kitten Rescue and Cat Connection.  A limited edition, this makes a unique gift, or a great conversation piece for your home.

INEXPENSIVE GIFTS FOR CAT LOVERS – JEWELRY UNDER $30.00

SILVER CAT DANGLE PENDANT

This handmade beauty is made in the United Kingdom – make sure you order in plenty of time for shipping.  Made by DesignFioreDiLoto, this vendor also makes other cat-themed jewelry, all hand created in their studio.

NECKLACE – CAT AND BOOKS

This sweet necklace is handmade in the United States, and ships within 3 to 5 days.  A perfect gift for the person who loves both cats and books.

CAT RINGS

These handmade rings ship from the United States and deliver quickly.  This comes in three colors and are adjustable to fit most fingers.  Five-star seller with over 7,000 sales.

ADORABLE TWO-PIECE CAT EARRINGS

Made of polymer clay, this ships from Spain, so, if you need these for a particular occasion, please order early. Tsuin Bros has a 5-star rating without over 17,000!! sales.  An adorable and inexpensive gift for a shelter worker, a teacher, or your favorite veterinarian or veterinary tech.

I hope you can find something that you’d love to gift (or to give to yourself) in this listing of inexpensive gifts for cat lovers.  There are so many creative ideas out there that the only difficulty becomes choosing among all the options. But we all know from experience that, when a friend takes the time to choose something that really reflects your personality and interests, the gift is so much more special.

Different environments and needs determine which type of dog a region develops. In Hungary, there are three different types of dog breeds – livestock protectors, herding dogs, and hunting hounds.

HUNGARIAN DOG BREEDS – HERDING DOGS

PULI

The Puli is a small, herding dog with a long, corded coat. They have been described as a “mop on springs” due to their high energy level.  This breed will need a lot of exercise, and will do best in a very active home.

Weighing no more than 35 pounds, the Puli looks to be much larger due to its weatherproof double coat. Lack of size doesn’t make it any less effective as a sheep herder – they’ve been known to jump on a sheep’s back to turn the flock.

STATUS

Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1936, the most popular dog breeds rank Pulis at 160 out of 197 registered breeds. Due to their high grooming needs, and near constant need for activity, they are a difficult breed for new dog owners.

HISTORY

Although the Puli can trace his lineage back to ancient Iraq, the foundation of today’s Puli breed lies in Hungary. Bred to herd sheep, they were often used in conjunction with another of Hungary’s native breeds, the Komondor.  The Puli herded, the Komondor protected the sheep from predators.

The long, corded coat protected the animals from the harsh Hungarian winters.  Pulis were purposefully bred to be black so as to be able to quickly distinguish them from the sheep.

In more modern times, the need for sheep dogs was on the wane. Because of this, the Puli was often interbred with other dogs, and the breed almost died out.  In 1912, however, a professor of Veterinary Medicine made it his mission to save the Puli from extinction.  With the help of the director of the Budapest Zoo, they were successful in saving the breed. Nowadays, almost all Pulis are descended from the original dogs used in this effort.

TEMPERAMENT

The Puli is nothing if not a herding dog.  She will herd sheep, or, in their absence, other dogs, children, and even you, if you let her. She’ll need some firm boundaries where this is concerned. Daily exercise is imperative with this breed.

They love to bark and will warn you of approaching strangers. Since they are great family dogs, but suspicious of other humans, they’re fantastic watchdogs.

Intelligent, agile, and a bit stubborn, Pulis thrive in an active environment.  They’ll enjoy training as a challenge.  Pulis should never be left without something to occupy their time – toys with hidden compartments for treats are a great idea for these guys.

HEALTH

Although generally healthy, Pulis, like all purebred dogs, are prone to certain genetic problems.   The most serious of these include:

• Hip Dysplasia – An inherited condition which can lead to lameness in one or both hind legs. Many dogs who suffer from this condition will go on to develop arthritis as they age.
• Degenerative Myelopathy – This tends to show up in dogs from the age of 7 onward. It is a progressive disease which has no known cure.
• Eye Disorders – From cataracts to deterioration of the retina, Pulis are pre-disposed to diseases of the eye. If your Puli is not herding animals, he should be able to adjust to a gradual loss of vision without too much difficulty.

RESCUES

Pulis are a relatively uncommon breed, and I was unable to find any rescues devoted to the Puli.  If you want to adopt, and are not looking for a puppy, breeders may sometimes have a dog of theirs returned and will place her up for adoption. (Yes, an ethical breeder will ALWAYS take back an animal that they have sold).

PUMI

This fuzzy looking goofball is a sheep dog, known for its herding ability as well as its intelligence.  Like many of the other herding breeds, it needs a job to keep it out of trouble. Lots of playtime or agility training is a must for this breed.

Pumis are considered a hypo-allergenic breed. Combing once every month or so should suffice for their grooming needs.

STATUS

Late to the game, the Pumi was finally recognized by the AKC in 2016. Fairly rare, these dogs rank 151^st out of 197 breeds in popularity in the United States.

HISTORY

The Pumi are referred to in history in the 17^th and 18^th centuries, and seem to be a product of interbreeding among the Puli, the Spitz, and the Briard.  Considered part herding dog, and part terrier, they have become the most popular herding dog in Finland.

TEMPERAMENT

Having a Pumi is like having an inquisitive, hyperactive, intelligent toddler.  They are easy to train, but can get into all kinds of mischief if not adequately exercised and challenged. A herding dog, care must be taken that they don’t automatically herd the family children, and often, the adults as well.

They’re naturally vocal, so may not make a great pet for those who live in close proximity to their neighbors.  Pumis (Pumik) are usually good with other animals and children and can make great family pets in households that have the time and energy for them.  Please don’t try these active little dogs in an apartment – they need to run.

HEALTH

Like many purebreds, Pumi are prone to hip dysplasia and patella luxation (knee issues). They live to between 12 and 14 years, and are generally a healthy breed.

RESCUES

Because they are so rare, it is close to impossible to find a member of this breed to rescue.  If you’ve decided this is the breed for you, try contacting the Hungarian Pumi Club of America, which occasionally has a dog or two for rescue.

MUDI

This spirited breed is all but unknown outside of Hungary. A herding dog, there are estimated to be only a few thousand of these dogs in existence.

STATUS

To be fully recognized by the AKC for the 2022 season, the Mudi is thought to be a mix of the Pumi, the Puli, and the Spitz. No popularity score for this breed is available.

HISTORY

The Mudi goes back to at least the 19^th century although not much is known about its actual history. Mudis are used as tracking dogs, rescue dogs, agility champions, and herding sheep.  The breed is particularly popular for sheep herding, not only in Hungary, but also in Sweden and Finland.

TEMPERAMENT

Described as having a pleasant personality, the Mudik (plural) are highly intelligent and can learn as much as a Border Collie.  Loving and gentle with the family, they do well with children and other pets. Like many of the herding dogs, Mudik can be barkers, but they’re easy to train out of this behavior. Give a Mudi a job, if you don’t want it to choose a job for itself!

The Mudi is well-suited for agility or obedience training, and maybe competition. These would provide the mental stimulation that this breed needs to be happy.  They love any sort of play – anything to keep body and mind occupied!

HEALTH

Likely due to the fact that these guys aren’t particularly popular, they are an overall healthy breed.  They can suffer from hip dysplasia, and have occasional eye issues, but for the most part, you don’t need to worry excessively about the health of your Mudi.

These pups are on the small side, weighing no more than 29 pounds.  Their average life span is 12 to 13 years.

RESCUES

An extremely rare breed, it is unusual to have one come into rescue.  If you have your heart set on one of these sweethearts, check with the Mudi Club of America which sometimes has dogs available for rehoming.

HUNGARIAN DOG BREEDS – GUARDIAN DOGS

KOMONDOR

The Komondor is, in appearance at least, the cousin of the Puli, but about twice the size and weight. They have the corded, double coat like the Puli, but, unlike the Puli a purebred Komondor is white.

They weigh in at about 80 pounds, and function as a livestock guardian rather than a herding dog.  Pulis and Komondors complement each other, both in function and looks.

STATUS

Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937, a year after the Puli, they are fairly rare with a popularity of 173 out of the 197 breeds. Still, a sheep rancher would find that the Komondor gives wonderful protection to livestock.

HISTORY

With predecessors from Russia, the Komondor is regarded as a definitive Hungarian breed. Some even say that they are responsible for the extinction of the wolf in Hungary.  Because their coats are so similar to the sheep they guard, they are able to easily surprise any predators.

During World War II, the breed was heavily reduced.  Thanks to the timely efforts of a few breeders, however, the Komondor was saved.

TEMPERAMENT

Komondors can be difficult for the casual dog owner. They’re bred to be guardians and will guard the family, the family cats, as well as any livestock. Therefore, they are very suspicious of strangers. You will need to be very aware of people coming onto your property or into your home, to avoid a nasty incident.

With their people, however, the Komondor is loving, calm and gentle, and you couldn’t ask for a better companion.  Noisy, and prone to wandering if not securely fenced, care must be taken to choose the right environment for this breed.

HEALTH

Komondors live to 10 to 12 years old. Because they are large and deep chested, they are prone to a condition called bloat. Bloat is fatal if surgery is not performed immediately. Still, feeding small meals two or three times a day should significantly lessen the chances of bloat.

Other possible issues are hip dysplasia, and, like the Puli, certain eye conditions.

RESCUES

There are a few Komondor rescues around. Because of their distinct temperaments, people may find that the breed is too much for them, or they don’t have the right kind of environment.  So, they opt to put them up for adoption.  Here are the rescues I have found:

Komondor Rescue – This rescue serves dogs in the Mid-Atlantic region. If you think this breed is right for you, check out their available dogs.

Komondor Club of America.  This is a nationwide club which also helps find purebred Komondors new homes if necessary.

KUVASZ

Another of the Hungarian guardian dogs, the Kuvasz is similar in appearance to the Great Pyrenees (Pyrenean Mountain Dog if you’re in the UK), and the Maremmano from Italy.

The Kuvasz is not petite – as adults, they weigh between 70 and 115 pounds.  Since most of this breed is no longer working as livestock guardians, they need to be exercised daily. Left without exercise or a defined job, they may become bored and destructive.

STATUS

Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1931, the Kuvasz is relatively rare in the United States. It ranks 163^rd out of 197 breeds in popularity.

HISTORY

The Kuvasz can trace its lineage to Turkey and Tibet, but it came into prominence as a definitive breed in Hungary in the Middle Ages.

Like many of the other European breeds, the Kuvasz suffered greatly during World War II with the result that the breed was almost gone by the time the war ended.  Dedicated breeders saved this gorgeous dog from extinction.

TEMPERAMENT

Like the Komondor, the Kuvasz guards its flock.  Doesn’t matter to them whether their “flock” is two-legged, or four-legged, the Kuvasz was bred to protect.

The Kuvasz will be gentle with the family children, but take care when your kids interact with other children.  Normal rough-housing may be construed as aggression by your pet with unhappy results.  It’s smart to contain your pup when there are children not of your family present.

Not particularly known to be friendly towards other dogs, the Kuvasz will usually get along fine with the family cat and any livestock you may have. Loyal and dependable, they are not lap dogs, and prefer to maintain a somewhat independent mien.

HEALTH

The Kuvasz breed is prone to hip dysplasia like many of the other large breeds. A slobberer, expect copious amounts of drool. The Kuvasz is not a hypo-allergenic breed, and will do best in a cooler climate.

RESCUES

Because the Kuvasz is not a common Hungarian dog breed, there are not many opportunities to adopt one.  However, the Kuvasz Fanciers of America will occasionally have a dog or two available for rehoming.

HUNGARIAN DOG BREEDS – HUNTING DOGS

VIZSLA

The Vizsla is a sporting dog used as a pointer and retriever in the field. However, they also make great family pets and are perfect companions for people who enjoy outdoor activities.

STATUS

Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960, Vizslas rank 31^st out of 197 breeds in popularity in the United States.  This makes the breed the most popular of those created in Hungary.

HISTORY

Brought into what is now Hungary by the Magyar people, the ancestors of the Vizsla were bred for speed and stamina. Refined by the Hungarians throughout the centuries, the Vizsla is known as an excellent hunting dog, as well as a friendly and loyal pet.  It is also called the Hungarian Pointer.

TEMPERAMENT

Long and lean, the Vizsla, unlike the livestock guardian dogs of Hungary, are friendly with strangers, and love to play. They will get along well with other dogs, however you will need to watch them closely for a while around cats and smaller animals, since they are a hunting dog at heart.

These guys are athletic and need plenty of exercise, so they’re a good choice for hikers or joggers, but an active family with children who will play with him will suit just as well.

Affectionate, they’re known as “Velcro dogs”, so expect your Vizsla to be with you from the time you get up in the morning, until the time you go to bed.  Easily trainable, you must pay attention to curb excessive barking before it becomes a bad habit.

HEALTH

With their smooth coat, and no undercoat, grooming is simply a matter of an occasional brushing to remove dander and loose hairs. Like many larger dog breeds, they may suffer from hip dysplasia, or thyroid issues.  Regular veterinary check-ups should keep any health concerns at bay.

RESCUES

With popularity comes plenty of dogs available for adoption.  The following represent just a few of the organizations which help to rehome Vizslas:

Midwest Vizsla Rescue – Covering Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas, they network adoptable dogs as well as adopting out Vizslas directly.

New Hope Vizsla Rescue – Based in Pennsylvania, they serve PA, NJ, DE, and MD.

Because these rescues are limited to just Vizslas, they will not always have one available – keep checking back if you’ve decided this breed is for you.

MAGYAR AGAR (HUNGARIAN GREYHOUND)

Although the Magyar Agar is commonly called the Hungarian Greyhound, they were not originally related to Greyhounds at all.  However, in the 1800s, they were interbred with Greyhounds to produce a faster dog. Sighthounds bred for hunting; the Magyar Agar is a relatively rare breed.

STATUS

Not recognized as a distinct breed by the AKC, they are, however recognized by the UKC (the United Kennel Club – an international registration). Because of this, there is no popularity score for these gorgeous hounds, but they are becoming more popular as family companion dogs.

HISTORY

Although there is no written history of the breed extending that far back, the Agar probably came into Hungary in the 10^th century. These dogs have remained the same from the first references in the Middle Ages until the present day. Prized by the nobility, only they were allowed to own the full-sized Magyar Agars. Peasants were restricted to owning a smaller hound.

TEMPERAMENT

Magyar Agar’s make affectionate, loyal family pets. Although, like Greyhounds, they love to snuggle on the couch, these dogs need plenty of exercise.  They generally don’t enjoy fetching, but will happily run alongside a bicycle, or join you for a daily jog.

Although this breed can co-exist with other family pets, careful introductions must be made with smaller animals. Remember, hounds have a natural prey-drive, and you don’t want your new pet to hunt your cat.

HEALTH

Like the other big dogs in this article, these hounds are subject to hip dysplasia, and gastric torsion. They may also suffer from hypothyroidism, but this is an inexpensive condition to treat. Magyar Agar’s are a healthy breed by and large, and have an average life span of 12 to 14 years.

RESCUES

The only rescue I could locate for this breed is the North American Magyar Agar Association, which occasionally has dogs for adoption.

TRANSYVLANIAN HOUND

STATUS

Not yet fully recognized by the American Kennel Club, the Transylvanian Hound (Kopo) has been accepted into their Foundation Stock Service. This is often the first step to full acceptance.

HISTORY

The favorite hunting dog of the nobility, they were originally used for hunting big game. Buffalo, bears, and wild boars were among their prey. As the countryside evolved towards more farms and less open areas, the hounds became less popular. By the 20^th century, the breed was in startling decline and it wasn’t until 1968 that a determined effort was made to preserve the breed.

Kopos are still extremely rare, but populations are becoming more widespread with time.

TEMPERAMENT

By all accounts, the Transylvanian Hound make fantastic family pets, great with children and other household dogs. They love their families with complete loyalty, but are a bit suspicious of strangers.  Because of this, they make great watchdogs.

Energetic and intelligent, be prepared to give your Transylvanian Hound plenty of exercise and playtime. They’re easy to train and eager to please.  Never let your hound off-leash outside of a confined area. They were bred to chase, and will happily take off after a squirrel or other prey animal without a backward glance.

HEALTH

These hounds are healthy and relative long-lived at 10 to 12 years.

RESCUES

I could not locate any rescues for these pups – those families who are lucky enough to own one tend to keep them.

HUNGARIAN DOG BREEDS – A SUMMARY

You’ll notice that none of these breeds were developed as lap dogs – all are working dogs in some fashion or another. From the livestock guardians, to the herding dogs, to the hounds, all were created for a job. As the need for those jobs declined, many were taken into people’s homes as family pets where they have thrived.

There are loads of unique gifts for dog lovers available on Etsy for the person you want to remember. Whether it’s a teacher, hairdresser, distant relation, neighbor, or the mailman, we want to find the perfect little remembrance that makes a present more than just an obligation.  The gifts below would be perfect as stocking stuffers for close friends and family, or “thank you” gifts for the people who make your life a little easier each day.

I’ve limited the sellers to those who have at least a 4.5 star rating.  All items are under a $25.00 price point, but this does not include the shipping charges.

All products are reachable by clicking on the photograph.

For inexpensive gifts for cat lovers – click here.

As an affiliate for Etsy, I earn from qualifying purchases.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR DOG LOVERS AVAILABLE ON ETSY- JEWELRY

I’m a semi-fanatic for cute earrings – the more out of the ordinary, the better.  I’m known for my massive collection, and often get comments from complete strangers about my jewelry.  If you’re looking for a gift for someone like me, who both loves dogs and jewelry, here are a few under-$25.00 choices:

EARRINGS

PUPPIES AND PAWS EARRINGS

These adorable earrings are handmade and ship from Oklahoma. The seller is Brockus Creations, and this is only one of the pairs of unique earrings in the shop.  Check them out by clicking on the photo below.

FRONT AND BACK ADORABLE DOG EARRINGS

The head and front paws go in front of the ear; the back paws and tail goes behind.  Be careful when ordering – these come per earring, so order a quantity of two if you want to give a pair. These ship from Spain, so be sure and allow plenty of time for arrival.  From the reviews, it looks as if they will also do custom orders so that you can have earrings that resemble your own dog.

METAL PAW PRINTS

These classy and simple gift for dog lovers is perfect for someone who enjoys small earrings and loves her canine companions.  Ships from Canada and there is no delivery by Christmas guarantee.  Estimated time – if you’re in the United States you will need to order by December 9th – however, the earlier the better.

NECKLACES

STYLE A NECKLACE – VARIOUS BREEDS

These adorable pendants are handmade in Florida and can be personalized with the dog’s name.  Various breeds are available – photo shows a Labrador. An Etsy seller since 2012, Christy Treasure Box has many pendant styles to choose from.

HYPOALLERGENIC NECKLACES

This is a relatively new shop, based in Connecticut.  It has a 5 star rating, but, bear in mind, this is only with 2 reviews, and 27 sales. Still, every crafter has to start somewhere.  This item is a set of three pet-themed necklaces. They predict a 7 day shipping turnaround.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR DOG LOVERS AVAILABLE ON ETSY- WEARABLES

TOPS

DRINK COFFEE, CUDDLE DOG

This is a cute shirt for a friend who enjoys wine, and dogs.  This vendor will also personalize the shirt with your dog’s name at no additional cost.  Available in five colors, this seller has a 5 star rating.  Ships from Ohio.

GREAT GIFT FOR YOUR DOG WALKER

This shirt is a perfect way to say “thank you” to the person who gives your dog something to look forward to every day.  Comes in four neutral colors, and ships from the United States.

SOCKS

These dachshund socks are adorable, come in either orange or blue, and can be purchased singly or in a two-pack bundle. Made and shipped from the United Kingdom, this seller also has socks featuring beagles, two types of generic dog socks, and corgis. Be sure to order early to ensure arrival times.

MIN-PIN SOCKS

A breed that’s near and dear to my heart.  I was never much into smallish dogs until I worked with one miniature pinscher at my local shelter, and fostered, and eventually adopted, another from a different shelter. They’ve got heart, personality, and just enough of a “tude” to make them special.  This seller ships from the US as quickly as the next day, as a five-star rating, and also sells socks for many other breeds.   Check out the pair by clicking on the photo below, then go along to the shop to see all the different breeds available.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR DOG LOVERS AVAILABLE ON ETSY- HOME DECOR

WALL ART

This poster would be perfect for a friend who likes bright colors, and enjoys have something a little different on their walls.  Ships from California within 2 to 7 business days. You can get designs from this gallery shop on mugs, pillows, and canvas as well.

CUSTOM WOOD PET ORNAMENTS

Various dogs painted on a wooden ornament.  This is a brand-new Etsy seller, with only two reviews – however, her work seems very detailed.  Ships from Kentucky in 4 to 8 business days.  Available breeds run the gamut from pugs to foxhounds.

DOGS HAVE BEEN FED

Ships from the United States – seems to take 15 to 20 days to ship out. Cute little decorative sign which will make any dog lover smile. Seller has five stars, and over 3,000 sales.

GREAT FOR A KID’S ROOM

This adorable poster is so perfect for a child’s room or family room.  Shipping from the United States, it is available in two styles. A long-term Etsy seller, this crafter has a five-star rating.  Ships within three days.

THANK YOU MUG FOR YOUR DOG GROOMER

This cute mug is a perfect “thank you” to the one who makes sure your canine friend looks his best.  This mug comes in two sizes and ships in 3 to 5 business days.

I hope you can find something here to make your gift shopping a little easier.  It’s always appreciated when you give a unique gift based on someone’s interests.  Happy Holidays!

Most shelters will not allow the adoption of a pet as a gift to someone else.  There are many reasons for this.  In order to protect both the pet (which is the main job of a shelter), and the potential adopter, all rescues have procedures that they follow. As much as it hurts to tell an enthusiastic gift-giver “no”, the shelters must do so.  Here are a few of the reasons why you should never give a pet as a gift:

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to make a purchase, I may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. 

SEVEN REASONS YOU SHOULD RECONSIDER GIVING A PET AS A GIFT

ARE YOU SURE THEY WANT A PET?

When I worked as an Adoption Counselor, I had two ladies come in to look at dogs to adopt. On speaking with them, I learned that they were sisters, looking for a dog to take home to their 70+ year old mother.  It seems their mother’s beloved dog had just passed away, and the daughters thought it would be a wonderful present to bring a new dog into their mom’s life.  A sweet thought.  How could this go wrong?

I spent a few moments chatting with them, before explaining that we didn’t adopt pets out as gifts.

My questions (and from their expressions, ones they hadn’t thought of):

• Was Mom ready for a new dog? Although I’ve known people who have adopted a new pet the day after they’ve lost their former one, many people need time to grieve.  The daughters weren’t really certain.
• Are you sure Mom wants another dog? Often people, especially elderly people on their own, have been thinking that, once their loved pet passes on, they’ll travel, or visit family, or do other things that having a pet has made difficult or impossible. The sudden introduction of a new pet gives Mom only two choices: a. give up on her dreams; or b. refuse the new animal. If she’s an animal lover, the choice will be a. every time, but is that fair?
• A pet and owner personality match is very important. Will Mom and the new pet be a good match? As much as a daughter thinks she knows her Mom (or a Mom their child), you can’t possibly match a pet with a person as successfully as they could themselves.

IF THE PET IS FOR A CHILD, ARE THE PARENTS ON BOARD?

People, even parents who should know better, often think their child is ready for more responsibility than they really are.  Never give a pet to a child unless the parents understand that they, not their child, are 100% responsible for that animal. Returning the animal to the shelter because “my child didn’t follow through and take care of her all the time” is not acceptable.

Children are children, and do not have an adult sense of responsibility.  Expecting them to take complete care of a pet is expecting the impossible, and abandoning an animal because the adult won’t step up is more irresponsible than a child could ever be. So, unless the parents are fully aware that they WILL have to care for any pet in the home, don’t give one to a child as a gift.

That having been said, getting a pet when you have children is certainly a great way to instill compassion and responsibility.  But the final decision to get one should involve all family members including the kids.  A pet personality is very specific to the family.

DO YOU KNOW THE FAMILY WELL ENOUGH TO JUDGE THE FIT BETWEEN ANIMAL AND HUMAN?

Some families thrive with an energetic pet who loves to rough house, go for runs, and bowl over people in their exuberance. To other families, this pet would be nothing but a nuisance.

Laid-back families (watching TV in the evenings is their go-to activity) would do best with laid-back pets.  Active families want active pets. Can you judge this appropriately?

WOULD THE INTENDED OWNER BE APPROVED TO ADOPT IF APPLYING ON THEIR OWN?

This is a difficult one. Depending on how well you know the person, and whether or not you’ve seen them with their animals, a mistake can easily be made here. Loving your pet is not necessarily enough.  Does the new owner have a history of taking previous pets to the vet and getting the necessary vaccinations? Does she intend on keeping the animal inside, or tied up in the back yard? Have his previous pets been spayed or neutered?  These are all things an outside person may not know.  But shelters and rescues need to know these things in order to approve an adoption.

WHY GIVING A PET AS A GIFT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A BAD IDEA

Not only will most shelters not approve this, many shelters cut off all adoptions for a week before and a week after Christmas.  These organizations will allow visiting and all the paperwork to be completed during that period, and approvals granted.  But animals will not be going home until after the New Year.

The holidays are a hectic time in just about every household.  There are extended family members in and out, lots of errands to run, and lots of chores to be done. This is not the time to bring an animal into your lives.  All adopted pets need some down time when they first arrive. Peace and quiet will allow them, and you, to acclimate to the new household. (For further reading, check out my earlier post about celebrating the holidays with a recently adopted pet.)

Would you like to be suddenly pulled from your family and deposited in the middle of a loud party?  I suspect not (except for some of you ultra-extroverts). A dog or cat feels the same.  Remember, they’ve been uprooted, and they don’t understand why. Many rescues now call for a two-week shutdown before a newly-adopted animal is allowed free rein in the home. That’s just not possible in the middle of the holidays.  Much better to wait until life has gone back to your regular routine.

REASONS NOT TO GIVE A PET TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER HAD ONE BEFORE

Giving someone who has never had a pet a dog or a cat is a recipe for unhappiness.  A person may be eagerly looking to become a pet owner, but without experience and with no one to answer questions, it will be much more difficult than it needs to be. New pet owners should go to shelters or rescues with knowledgeable staff who can work with them directly.  People new to domestic animals will need an “easy” pet to begin with, and only a staff familiar with the pets can choose which ones will fit.

WILL THE SPOUSE/PARTNER APPROVE OF AN ANIMAL IN THE HOME?

This is a tricky one.  Many years ago my Mother got the idea of getting her father a dog from the shelter for Christmas.  I remember the dog well – a tri-colored shepherd mix with a sweet personality.  But Mom didn’t think of one thing – her mother had absolutely no desire for a pet, nor any intention of allowing her husband to bring one into the home.

The end result was my mother having one more dog that she really didn’t need (we had a few already).  My father was not thrilled about this either.  At least they kept the dog. In many instances, the animal would have been returned to the shelter, because of a poor decision on the part of humans.

SOME IDEAS TO TRY, IF YOU REALLY WANT TO GIVE SOMEONE A PET

A GIFT CERTIFICATE

Rather than giving a pet as a gift, pay for an adoption certificate.  Many shelters and rescues would be happy to work with you in this way. You can go in, pay the standard adoption fee for the type of pet you want to gift, and get a certificate.  Then, you can take your friend to the shelter and help them choose which pet they would like. (Bear in mind, though, that your friend will still have to go through the approval process.)

A TOUR OF THE SHELTERS

Wait until a few days after the holiday or birthday and take your friend on a tour of local rescues and shelters. Let her know you’re willing to take all the time necessary until she finds the pet she wants.  Sometimes a person just needs a little nudge.

SEND OUT A SCOUTING PARTY

Visit the shelter a day or two before you take the giftee.  You might be able to make the process a little easier by eliminating the pets that you know won’t fit her lifestyle.  The ones who are too energetic, or too large, or not the right age. That way, when she gets there, she’ll visit with only the ones who might suit.

SPECIAL TIPS FOR GETTING A PET FOR A CHILD

If you are planning on getting a pet for your child, or for someone else’s child, plan ahead.  If the child is under 10, or particularly high-strung, make sure they’re well-rested and well-fed before you go to the shelter. A kid in a state of excitement will frighten a lot of animals, and make everyone’s trip less enjoyable.

If your child exhibits fear of the animals, STOP.  Forcing a frightened child to interact with a pet can ruin both her later enjoyment and the animal’s future interaction with children. There is no set age when a child should outgrow a fear – and there are also many adults who are frightened of animals. Maybe he’ll be ready for a pet one day, but he isn’t now. There’s no shame in finding out that this is not the right time for your family to adopt.

In short, adopting a pet is a very personal thing – having been around many animals in many different environments, I know that there are animals that call to you, and those which do not. There’s no magical way to judge which are which, only the person whose pet it will become can know.  So, by all means help your friend or family member find a pet to love, but let them have the joy of discovering the right one for them.

Photo of cat under Christmas tree Image by Myshun from Pixabay

Dog in field with child Image by TheOtherKev from Pixabay

Photo of dog wearing birthday hat Image by CosettesBlog from Pixabay

Beagle with bow photo by Vlad Sargu on Unsplash

With homeschooling and distance learning becoming the norm, I’ve found some free pet-themed lesson plans from around the Internet. If your family is full of animal lovers, you now have the option of concentrating at least some of your efforts on subjects your child already loves. This strategy has proven very successful over the years, particularly when it comes to reluctant learners.

I have pulled a few of the options from each site to do a more thorough review.  These are not ALL the resources available – pay each website a visit to discover more lessons.

Bear in mind that I am not recommending any of the resources listed below – the choice of curriculum should always be made with your families’ values and beliefs in mind. You will embrace some of these resources, and will reject others – this post is to show you some of the options.

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to make a purchase, I may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. 

RESOURCES FOR FREE PET-THEMED LESSON PLANS

Below are just a few of the free pet-themed lesson plans available on the Internet.  A thorough search could take many hours, so I’ve compiled some of the best options below:

NATIONAL HUMANE EDUCATION SOCIETY

Lesson plans covering K through 12.  Usually, the National Humane Education Society sends educators to schools throughout the country to present programs concerning animal welfare.  Because of the current situation, however, they have made many lesson plans available online – free for the taking.  Each has a printable version, which makes it even easier.  The National Humane Education Society also runs Briggs Animal Adoption Center in Charles Town, WV.

A few examples:

3^rd – 8^th grade

Dogs and Cats of the World – This lesson involves the student choosing a country that interests them, and then researching which breed comes from that country.  Supplies are limited to common household items.  Students create posters – either with the animal, the country, or the flag.  Or, for the older grades, students create a research paper.

1^st – 8^th grade

Paper Plate Habitat – Students build a habitat for a particular species of animal on a paper plate using a small animal figurine and other simple craft supplies.  Research involves understanding what sort of habitat the pupil’s chose animal is appropriate. I see an inherent limit here – if a student chooses an unusual animal for which an appropriate figurine is unavailable. This could be solved by having the student find a photo of their animal and gluing onto cardboard.

I do think that the upper limit of 8^th grade is too high – I would say appropriate for 1^st through 6^th.

These are only two of the lesson plans available from the National Humane Education Society – go to their website to discover them all.

ANIMAL HUMANE ONLINE

This is a product of the Animal Humane Society out of Minnesota.   They have many different free pet-themed lesson plans for grades K-12.

K – 5^th Grade

Fun Feline Pie Charts

Fun math activity teaching children to read and understand pie charts and percentages. Colorful worksheet and great comparisons. Only drawback – question A.4. should read “are black OR grey”, not AND.  Still, with a quick edit from Mom or Dad, a great learning worksheet.

Grades 4 through 8

Origami Cat Mobile

Just for fun and art.  YouTube video to make a mobile using simply obtained craft supplies.  There are several other videos as well – be sure to check them all out.

Grades 8 through 12

Dog Breeds Game

This one is adjustable to cover all age groups from 8 through 17.  Covers history, animal breed identification, art, use of Power Point, all in a fun game format. Requires some creativity on the part of the adults to keep things interesting.

AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

This website has lots of resources for kids in K through 12.  In order to download any of these items free you’ll need to agree to their Terms and Conditions.  Designed for veterinarians to help kids explore that particular career path, there are all sorts of Power Point presentations here.

Grades K-3

Power Point notes, and FAQs.  This resource introduces kids to the world of veterinary medicine, and illustrates many of the scenarios a vet will face during their career.  Great for kids who have a scientific bent and a love for animals.  These presentations, at a more advanced level, are also available through grades 12.

Grades 4–8

Comic book – V-Force – Veterinarians to the Rescue. If you’re teaching a number of kids, you can order a package of 25 for $18.00.  If it’s for only one or two kids, you can download for free (make sure you have plenty of printer ink before downloading).   This book is also available in Spanish.

HEART (HUMANE EDUCATION ADVOCATES REACHING TEACHERS)

Free teaching guides for Humane Education (K-12), and one entitled Kindness for All (Pre-K to 2^nd grade).  This site also has videos to go along with some of their lessons, as well as one with do-it-yourself crafts for pets.   This is a pretty extensive site.

Pre-K through 2^nd grade

Kindness for All – Different Lessons for Animal Needs, Animals Have Feelings, Too, and others.  This is a downloadable resource – check the preview to see if this is right for you.

Grades K-12

Numerous lesson plans about animals, and other things. This is also a downloadable resource – be sure to check the preview.

NATIONAL ZOO

Most of the items here are about wildlife, but there is a lesson plan about Animal Clinics suitable for K-5, which is translatable into veterinary hospitals.   Download it here.  If you’re doing lessons about wild animals, there are plenty of other resources – just search lesson plans.

HUBERT’S ANIMAL WELFARE CENTER

This adoption center in New Jersey usually sends humane educators out to schools to present programs in person.  They, do, however, have a section devoted to instructions on how to make enrichment toys for shelter animals.  Sounds like a great activity to involve your kids in helping your local shelter.

LEARNING TO GIVE

This organization was founded to provide lesson plans centering on philanthropy.  Although this covers many different issues, there are some free pet-themed lessons here.

Grades 3 – 5

Animal Shelters.  This is a unit of four lessons, which includes planning of a service project by the students. These lessons cover many different disciplines, including Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, etc. Since most of us have an animal shelter within a reasonable driving distance, a field trip (prearranged with the shelter) would enhance these classes.  Most shelters are more than happy to accommodate homeschoolers or distance learners, either individually, or as a small group.

AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB

This site has extensive dog-themed lesson plans, all broken down into various disciplines – Math, Language, etc. There are also hands-on activities for Pre-K through 3^rd Grade. You could spend several hours here, just browsing.  Some of the lessons available:

Grades K – 2

Short or Tall – Math. Learning the concepts of short and tall, this plan uses the AKC guide to purebred dogs poster. Students choose which dogs are short and which are tall.  Great for primary grades.  The poster is free for download, and the supplies are minimal.

Grades 3 – 5

The Environment and Dog Traits – Science.  A study about how environmental factors – diet, exercise, etc. – can affect dogs. There are many free articles and videos linked here to encourage a discussion of what keeps dogs healthy. At the end of this lesson, students will complete a book entitled Healthy Dog Book. Videos and articles are free, supplies are minimal.

Grades 6 – 8

Dogs in Poetry – Language Arts. Analyzing poetry about dogs, and writing their own poem. This is a fairly extensive dog-oriented lesson plan, involving discussion of poetry and poetry terms, as well as reading specific poems.  Students discuss the poems, and then write their own.  This one could easily be adapted for a cat-themed lesson.

Grades 9 – 12

Digging Deep into the History of Guide Dogs – Social Studies.  This plan includes creating a timeline, learning how guide dogs are trained, discovering which breeds make the best guide dogs, and learning how technology is being used to enhance a guide dog’s ability.  As with all of these plans, there are plenty of free resources available.

CATS PROTECTION

Run by a cat welfare society in the United Kingdom, this site has some cat-themed lesson plans.  The British spelling may throw you off, but the site has lots of cool information.  Their “Moggy Modules” have separate downloadable worksheets, for ages 5 through 11, and cover Cat Behavior, Cat Health, Cat Diet, among other things. There are plenty of videos to go along with these lessons.

Cat’s Protection also has cat welfare, and animal careers lesson plans for ages 14 and up.

This is just a small sampling of free pet-themed lesson plans available online. There are many others, both free, and paid, to help you and your child on their educational journey.  Good luck with your educational endeavors!

Photo of little girl on laptop by Bermix Studio on Unsplash

Black and white photo of child with cat by Norman Bosworth from Pixabay

Boy with Boxer Image by Michaela Ludwig from Pixabay

WHAT IS DONE DURING A SPAY PROCEDURE?

The most common spay removes the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus.  Your pet will be put under general anesthesia (unconscious), and one incision made.  Everything is removed through this one opening, and the area is closed with two layers of stitches.

ALTERNATE SPAY METHODS

Sometimes, other options are presented.  One is a hysterectomy where the uterus and part of the fallopian tubes are removed but the ovaries remain; the other is removal of the ovaries, and the uterus remains. All of these procedures are done under general anesthesia. Whichever method is chosen, the pet will be unable to reproduce.

RECOVERY FROM SPAYING

Your pet will have to wear a cone (Elizabethan collar) for up to seven days to prevent them from licking or scratching and reopening the incision. Activity should be strictly limited for the first few days, gradually increasing as she heals.

She shouldn’t have a bath for about two weeks, and she should be prevented from jumping. Soon, though, she’ll be back to normal.  But no more cleaning up after her, no worries about bringing puppies into the world, and lots of health benefits.

WHAT IS DONE DURING A NEUTER?

Of the two, neutering is by far the simpler procedure. Also done while the animal is unconscious, neutering involves removal of both testicles.  In dogs, the incision is closed with sutures; in cats the incision will close on its own.

RECOVERY FROM NEUTER

As with females, males should wear a cone for a week or so to prevent reopening the incision. They will also need to remain less active than usual, gradually increasing activity as the incision heals.

AT WHAT AGE SHOULD MY PET BE SPAYED OR NEUTERED?

Generally, both cats and dogs can be neutered at around eight weeks, depending on their overall health and weight.  Many veterinarians, however, are now recommending that large-breed dogs, i.e. German Shepherds, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, etc. wait until they reach one year.  If in doubt, find a vet you trust, and follow her recommendation.

If you’re adopting, most shelters will spay or neuter before you can take a dog or cat home.  Some, however, will require that you have your vet perform the surgery and present them with proof that it’s been done. It is rare to find a shelter who does not require neutering.

IS SPAYING AND NEUTERING SAFE?

In the vast majority of cases, absolutely. This surgery has been done millions of times, and any competent veterinarian will have performed many.  There are always slight risks with anesthesia, including allergic reactions, and a post-operative infection can certainly occur.  This risk can be all but eliminated however, by preventing your pet from licking or scratching the area.

ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES TO SPAY OR NEUTER SURGERY?

There are hormonal injections that can chemically neuter male dogs and cats.  However, these are not yet in widespread use, and may not eliminate all reproductive behaviors.

There is NO alternative to surgery for spaying a female pet.

HOW MUCH DO THESE OPERATIONS COST?

Costs can vary widely, depending on the veterinarian or clinic, and the cost of living where you are.  Generally, spays and neuters do not cost more than $200.00, although that can rise if your female is in heat, or pregnant.

There are, however, plenty of lower cost options available for spaying and neutering.  For example, Spay Today, a part of the National Humane Education Society, operates out of Charles Town, WV, and works with veterinarians in WV, MD, and VA to provide lower cost surgeries.   The Sterling Animal Clinic in Sterling, MA works directly with pet owners to provide these services.  Check with your local animal shelter or rescue – they will know where to send you.

When going to a lower cost clinic, please check some online reviews.  Remember, there will always be someone who is unhappy, so don’t let a few bad reviews cause alarm.  But, if there are several, you may want to look elsewhere.  There are those clinics, unfortunately, who cut corners in order to offer a lower price.

Also, when going to a regular vet, make sure that EVERYTHING is included in their cost estimate.  Some vets don’t think twice about adding charges for anesthesia, or pain medication, or an overnight stay in the hospital and claiming that you should have known those services were not included in your written estimate. As with any other large purchase, it’s always smart to read the fine print.

TEN BENEFITS OF SPAYING AND NEUTERING YOUR PET

HELP PREVENT OVERPOPULATION

This is the single, most important thing any pet owner can do to help reduce euthanasia due to overpopulation. Animal shelters are already overflowing with homeless dogs and cats.  It’s the responsible thing to ensure your pet won’t add to the problem.

It is estimated that 1.5 million completely adoptable shelter pets are euthanized each year.  This is solely because there are more unwanted animals than shelters can possibly find homes for. Spaying and neutering reduces that number, and gives the remainder a better chance of finding a permanent home.

REDUCES CANCER RISK

Spaying your female pet early reduces her risk of cervical cancer. There is also a much lower risk for developing breast cancer which is extremely fast-moving and deadly in cats and can also be deadly to dogs.  Testicular cancer is also eliminated in male dogs and cats and reduces the rate of prostate cancer.

REDUCES RISK OF INFECTION

Spaying your female prevents pyometra, an infection of the uterus which can cause death.

ELIMINATES COMPLICATIONS FROM PREGNANCY AND BIRTH

PREVENTS WANDERING

Males can smell a female in heat for a considerable distance, leading to escapes from fences and dashing out open doors.  Neutering eliminates the distraction and keeps your male pet close to home.

Females, too, can become wanderers when in heat.  Spaying will keep her from escaping your yard in search of a mate.

LOWERS AGGRESSION TOWARDS OTHER ANIMALS

This is particularly true for male cats and dogs who are biologically prone to aggression towards competing males. Removal of the testes also removes most of the testosterone, thereby eliminating the cause for breeding competition.

REDUCES THE RISK OF ATTACK BY OTHER PETS

Particularly for male dogs and cats, being neutered will reduce their risk of being attacked by non-neutered males, since there is no longer any biological competition involved.

REDUCES INAPPROPRIATE URINATION (MARKING)

Particularly in male cats, but also, to a lesser extent in dogs, marking can make an otherwise delightful house pet not quite so delightful.  Not only does this stain household surfaces, but it also provides a pungent smell that makes your home smell nasty. Neutering will severely limit or prevent this behavior.

ELIMINATES THE MESS FROM HEAT CYCLES

Anyone who has had a female dog knows the mess that happens during heat cycles.  Spaying will eliminate the endless cleaning completely.

REDUCES OR ELIMINATES MOUNTING BEHAVIORS IN MALES

Mounting often causes a lot of embarrassment among dog owners and their guests. Neutering reduces, and often eliminates, this behavior.  No more red faces when your dog greets someone new.

SPAYING AND NEUTERING – THE KINDEST THING YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR PET

We all want our pets to be healthy and happy.  And we all want to slow and eventually eliminate the high rate of euthanizing of adoptable animals.

Strangely, it is usually men who object to neutering their male pets.  When questioned, they usually mutter something about “not taking his manhood”.  Sometimes, they even wince when they say it.  Let’s be clear – dogs and cats do NOT have a “manhood”.  They are not psychologically damaged from being neutered, nor do they spend their days regretting not being able to be a father.

Generally, spaying and neutering an animal produces a calmer, happier house pet.  And that will make you a calmer and happier pet parent.

Photo of gray dog with puppies by Karel Van der Auwera on Unsplash

Puppy being examined by a vet – Image by David Mark from Pixabay

Mom and kitten photo by Prasad Panchakshari on Unsplash

Image of dog and cat together by 2allmankind from Pixabay

 

WHY DO PEOPLE SURRENDER THEIR PETS?

A DEATH IN THE FAMILY

Often a much-loved pet is owned by someone living alone.  When that person dies, no one in the family is willing or able to make the pet a new member of their own family.  So, the poor animal is surrendered to a shelter. These pets are frightened and confused – and just need some time to regain their equilibrium.  Imagine waking up one morning, being driven to a strange place, and left, sometimes after years of love and attention from your human.  You’d be shell-shocked, too.

ADOPTING AN ANIMAL AFTER THE DEATH OF THEIR OWNER

Honestly, some pets will mourn their owners for a very long time.  Others will bounce back pretty quickly.  Adopting an animal from this situation will take some patience and understanding. Attachment to a new human may take some time, or it may not. I adopted a Miniature Pinscher with this background.  He got in my car, spent the drive looking out the window, entered my house and never looked back. Other pets will be withdrawn or shy for a while, before accepting that this will be their new home. Give your new pet some space and time, and you will find that these animals are perfect for adoption.

HAVING A BABY

Some people don’t have a “forever” dog or cat; they have a pet “until” they have a baby. This is one reason why many shelters are hesitant to adopt to pregnant couples.  To be clear, most issues between a pet and a baby can be worked out with the help of a trainer, or through adequate supervision of interactions between a new baby and the pet. Often, there’s no problem at all. But some owners don’t wait until there’s an issue, but just assume there will be. This is a shame, since raising a child with a dog or cat (properly supervised) is a wonderful way to teach compassion and responsibility.

ADOPTING AN ANIMAL SURRENDERED DUE TO A BABY IN THE HOUSE

If you’re older, single with no kids, or married with no immediate plans to have a baby, this is an easy adoption.  Check the history – was there a baby in the home and were there problems? Or did the owners surrender their pet just as soon as they found out they were pregnant?  If the former, don’t adopt unless your kids are over 10 years old.  If the latter, anyone can adopt without a problem. Just be sure that you plan on keeping this dog or cat for the remainder of its life. Being abandoned once is hard on a pet – more than once is cruel.

MOVING

This is the reason I hear most often and the one I have the least patience with. But many owners don’t want to take the trouble to look for a rental which will accept their pet, preferring to take the easy way out by turning them over to a shelter.

ADOPTING A PET SURRENDERED DUE TO MOVING

These pets have usually exhibited no behavior problems, and are easy adoptions.  Like the pets surrendered for the reasons above, expect your new cat or dog to take some time to become accustomed to a new home and family. And be aware that a few problems could develop during acclimation. Be willing to engage a trainer to help with any issues that may arise, just as with any animal you bring into your home.

AGE OF THE PET

This one is hard to understand.  Some people decide that their elderly pet is not fun anymore and they surrender them to a shelter so that they can get a “fun” puppy instead. These animals thought they were loved, but then discovered that they were considered “disposable”. (I would hate to be an elderly relative of any of these people.)  As much as with animals surrendered due to the death of an owner, these pets will be confused and grieving.

ADOPTING A SENIOR PET

Senior dogs and cats still have a lot of love to give. They’re generally easier pets with limited exercise needs; perfect for senior citizens, or families who enjoy watching movies and playing video games, rather than hiking and playing sports.  Obviously, the veterinarian bills will be higher and you may have to take your senior pet to be examined more often. But these pets have done nothing except love their families, and they deserve a chance to end their days in a home, not a cage.

You may discover some traits that are not what you’d wish in a pet, but, remember, those habits have been allowed in another home for many years. Although senior dogs are as trainable as pets of any other age, it may take some time and patience to undo long-tolerated behaviors.  There are many rescues across the country which specialize in senior pets, including Gray Face Acres in Virginia and Good Old Tails in Pennsylvania.

NEW BOYFRIEND/GIRLFRIEND/WIFE/HUSBAND

No patience for this one, either.  If you love someone, you love what they love. Demanding that your new partner surrender his or her pet is, in my opinion, grounds for rethinking the entire relationship.  But it happens, more often than you’d think.

ADOPTING AN ANIMAL SURRENDERED BECAUSE OF A NEW RELATIONSHIP

Much like senior pets, these animals knew nothing but love until a new partner came into the mix.  They will take time to adjust, but will usually make wonderful companions in the long-term.

UNCLAIMED STRAYS

Often shelters will take in animals from the local Animal Control office who were turned in as strays and never reclaimed.  Sometimes, the owner is never found, but, often, the owner refuses to come back for their pet.  They either cannot seem to contain the animal, and the calls from Animal Control become a regular event.  Or, they don’t want to pay the fee to reclaim their pet and surrender is the easy way out.

ADOPTING AN UNCLAIMED STRAY

If the owner has never been located, there will not be any history on the pet.  Take your time with these guys and pay more than one visit if possible. You will have to depend on your own judgement, or that of the shelter staff, to decide if this dog or cat is meant for you.

In the case of an owner who refuses to reclaim the animal, see if you can find out the reason.  If it’s because of constant “walk-abouts”, be aware that you’ll have to devise ways to keep your pet from escaping. Higher or tighter fences, double entry doors, whatever you need to do to keep this wanderer home.

If, however, the owner just doesn’t want to pay the fee, consultation with the shelter staff and your own observations should help you decide whether to adopt.

AND, LASTLY, BEHAVIOR ISSUES

Yes, some dogs and cats are surrendered for behavior issues – some of them serious. However, bear in mind that this is NOT the most common reason for surrender. Some behavior issues are mild – getting into the trash, jumping on people, etc. – and easily corrected. You can either train your pet yourself, or go to a reputable, positive-reinforcement trainer. Surrenders for this reason are usually due to lack of willingness to spend the time and/or money to resolve the situation.

Some behavior problems are medically caused. A urinary tract infection can cause urination inside the home or outside the litter box. Pain can cause wandering at night or snappy behavior.  Fortunately, most private shelters vet their animals, and will investigate the cause of any change in behavior.

Some problems are beyond the shelter’s ability to help.  This is usually aggressive behavior, either towards other animals, or towards humans. You will often see a dog advertised as “must be only pet in the home”.  These are dogs who are unable to share space and attention with other pets.

Others have a bite history. If a bite was caused by a child throwing rocks at a dog, or otherwise injuring them, these dogs may be adopted out to homes without children.

If, however, the bite was unwarranted, and no reasonable explanation can be found, these dogs may be euthanized to protect the general public. Most dogs who fit this profile are not safely adoptable.  There are shelters who insist that they be adopted out (a stance I disagree with).  If the animal you are interested in has a bite history (shelters are required to disclose this), please ask detailed questions about the circumstances.

ADOPTING A PET WITH BEHAVIOR ISSUES

If you’re a person or family who only wants one dog, consider the dogs who are listed as only pets.  Because many people who visit shelters already have at least one other dog or cat, these poor souls often spend the most time in a shelter before finding a home.  Having said that – please don’t adopt one of these guys expecting that they will suddenly accept other animals without a problem.

For dogs with unwarranted bite histories, unless you’re a dog trainer or behaviorist, steer clear.  Most shelters will not adopt out a dog with unexplained bites, but some, out of an abundance of love for all animals, will try.  I’m not a proponent of this, having seen too many of these cases end in tragedy, either with the animal finally being euthanized, or a human seriously injured, or, often, both.  So, when considering a dog who has bitten, be very sure you understand the circumstances before agreeing to adopt.

Occasionally, cats are also surrendered for aggression.  Since cats are so much smaller, and less likely to cause serious injury to an adult human, adoption of these animals only demand understanding.  If you’re a cat owner who is fine with a feline who prefers “social distancing” at all times, please adopt one of these unfortunate animals. But, if you want a cat who likes to cuddle, stay away.  There are plenty of more social cats and kittens available at just about every shelter across the country.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Why do people surrender their pets?  There are as many reasons as there are families. Just know that shelter pets aren’t “broken” or “damaged” – they were just in the wrong home.

Adopting a cat or dog from a shelter or rescue takes some planning and consideration.  Your lifestyle, your patience level, and the amount of time you have to devote to a pet all play a part in which animal will best suit you.  Find out the history (when available), and be honest with yourself about what you are willing to work with.

Most animals are NOT surrendered due to behavioral or health issues, but for a wide variety of other reasons.  These pets are full of love, and will provide companionship through many years.  Don’t let the myth that shelter animals “have something wrong with them”, prevent you from bringing a new cat or dog into your home and family.