Selecting The Right Animal For You

By Tanya M. Petrokov

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) L.A.W.S., P.O. Box 156, Smiths Falls, ON, K7A 4T1:

Deciding to add an animal to your life is an important and serious decision. It requires a commitment of time, money, patience and dedication. An equally important decision is selecting the right type of animal for your lifestyle. Finding the right pet ensures its assimilation into your life will be smooth with fewer frustrations, for both of you. The shelter staff at LAWS are committed to helping you find the animal best suited to you, your family and lifestyle.

If you travel frequently, you might want to consider adopting a feline. Because of its autonomous nature, a cat can be left alone overnight with adequate food, water and litter box. If walking will be a challenge then a dog that requires daily exercise may prove to be a problem. Generally, the Lab, Husky and Shepherd varieties are not good around cats, so this might be an important consideration. Some dogs are excellent with kids while others are more comfortable with one owner. Long-haired animals will require regular grooming to avoid painful tangles. Have a look at our website to get an idea of the types of animals available for adoption and decide on whether you want a cat or dog, male or female, long or short-haired, timid or outgoing? Knowing this before you come to the shelter will help make your decision easier and the resultant adoption all the more successful.

Whichever animal you choose, remember that he/she wants to be part of a happy family too. It might take time for it to become comfortable with your routine. Be assured, that with time and patience and love it will find its own special place in your life and you will wonder how you ever got by without one another for so long.