Top 10 Reasons to Adopt A Senior Cat ♥

Here at The Gifted Pet, we truly adore the seniors, and we want to challenge you to look behind the fluffy cuteness of a new puppy or kitten and see the beauty that older pets have to offer! Here are our top 10 reasons to adopt a senior cat (also be sure to check out our top 10 reasons to adopt a senior dog). For tips on caring for your older pet, ask us about Senior Pet Care 101.

  

Top 10 reasons to adopt a Senior Cat:

1. When senior cats are adopted, they seem to understand that they’ve been rescued, and are all the more thankful for it.

2. A senior cat’s personality has already developed, so you’ll know if he or she is a good fit for your family.

3. You can teach an old cat new tricks: Senior cats have the attention span and impulse control that makes them easier to train than their youthful counterparts.

4. A senior cat may very well already know basic household etiquette (like not attacking your feet at night) anyway!

5. In particular, senior cats are often already litter trained and are less likely to “forget” where the box is.

6. A senior cat won’t grow any larger, so you’ll know exactly how much cat you’re getting.

7. Senior cats are often content to just relax in your company, unlike younger cats, who may get into mischief because they’re bored.

8. Speaking of relaxing, senior cats make great napping buddies.

9. Senior cats often know that scratching posts (not furniture) are for scratching and toys (not hands or feet) are for biting.

10. Senior cats are some of the hardest to find homes for ~ so when you adopt a senior cat, you’re truly saving a life.

Choosing to adopt a senior cat is a life-saving choice, but don’t adopt one because you feel bad . . . . adopt one because they’re easy going, instant companions.  When senior cats are surrendered it may be due to a life altering change and is a last resort, however we are finding that lately this is not always the case.  An owner’s ill health, the birth of a child, allergies, senior pet illness, an unforeseen move or financial change; the reasons (or excuses) are many. Senior cats that end up in shelters are good cats with no place else to go.  No senior pet deserves to spend the last years of their life in a noisy, scary shelter. By choosing to adopt a senior cat you’re giving him, or her, a second chance at life.  ♥

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Adopt A Senior Dog ♥

Here at The Gifted Pet, we truly adore the seniors, and we want to challenge you to look behind the fluffy cuteness of a new puppy or kitten and see the beauty that older pets have to offer! Here are our top 10 reasons to adopt a senior dog (also be sure to check out our top 10 reasons to adopt a senior cat). For tips on caring for your older pet, ask us about Senior Pet Care 101.

Top 10 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog:

1. Older dogs are house-trained. You won’t have to go through the difficult stage(s) of teaching a puppy house manners and mopping / cleaning up after accidents.

2. Older dogs are not teething puppies, and won’t chew your shoes and furniture while growing up.

3. Older dogs can focus well because they have mellowed. Therefore, they learn quickly.

4. Older dogs have learned what “no” means. If they had not learned it, they would not have gotten to be “older” dogs.

5. Older dogs settle in easily, because they have learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack.

6. Older dogs are good at giving love, once they get into their new, loving home. They are grateful for the second chance they have been given.

7. What You See Is What You Get:  Unlike puppies, older dogs have grown into their shape and personality. Puppies can grow up to be quite different from what they seemed at first.

8. Older dogs are instant companions ~ ready for hiking, car trips, and other things you like to do.

9. Older dogs leave you time for yourself because they don’t make the kinds of demands on your time and attention that puppies and young dogs do.

10. Older dogs let you get a good night’s sleep because they’re accustomed to human schedules and don’t generally need nighttime feedings, comforting, or bathroom breaks.

Choosing to adopt a senior dog is a life saving choice, but don’t adopt one because you feel bad . . . . adopt one because they’re easy going, instant companions.  When senior dogs are surrendered it may be due to a life altering change and is a last resort, however we are finding that lately this is not always the case.  An owner’s ill health, the birth of a child, allergies, senior pet illness, an unforeseen move or financial change; the reasons (or excuses) are many. Senior dogs that end up in shelters are good dogs with no place else to go.  No senior pet deserves to spend the last years of their life in a noisy, scary shelter. By choosing to adopt a senior dog you’re giving him, or her, a second chance at life.  ♥

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Tips for the First 30 Days of Dog Adoption ♥

The first few days in your home are special and critical for a pet. Your new dog will be confused about where he is and what to expect from you. Setting up some clear structure with your family for your dog will be paramount in making as smooth a transition as possible.

Before You Bring Your Dog Home:

* Determine where your dog will be spending most of his time. Because he will be under a lot of stress with the change of environment (from shelter or foster home to your house), he may forget any housebreaking (if any) he's learned. Often a kitchen will work best for easy clean-up.

* Dog-proof the area where your pooch will spend most of his time during the first few months. This may mean taping loose electrical cords to baseboards; storing household chemicals on high shelves; removing plants, rugs, and breakables; and installing baby gates.

* Training your dog will start the first moment you have him. Take time to create a vocabulary list everyone will use when giving your dog directions. This will help prevent confusion and help your dog learn his commands more quickly.

* Bring an ID tag with your phone number on it with you when you pick up your dog so that he has an extra measure of safety for the ride home and the first few uneasy days. If he is microchipped, be sure to register your contact information with the chip's company, if the rescue or shelter did not already do so.

First Day:

* We know moving is stressful . . . and your new dog feels the same way! Give him time to acclimate to your home and family before introducing him to strangers. Make sure children know how to approach the dog without overwhelming him.

* When you pick up your dog, remember to ask what and when he was fed. Replicate that schedule for at least the first few days to avoid gastric distress. If you wish to switch to a different brand, do so over a period of about a week by adding one part new food to three parts of the old for several days; then switch to half new food, half old, and then one part old to three parts new.

* On the way home, your dog should be safely secured, preferably in a crate. Some dogs find car trips stressful, so having him in a safe place will make the trip home easier on him and you.

* Once home, take him to his toileting area immediately and spend a good amount of time with him so he will get used to the area and relieve himself. Even if your dog does relieve himself during this time, be prepared for accidents. Coming into a new home with new people, new smells and new sounds will throw even the most housebroken dog off-track, so be ready just in case.

* If you plan on crate training your dog, leave the crate open so that he can go in whenever he feels like it in case he gets overwhelmed. (Although we don't advocate crates in general, they are useful in certain situations . . . and, many dogs prefer the den-like qualities of a crate).

* From there, start your schedule of feeding, toileting and play/exercise. From Day One, your dog will need family time and brief periods of solitary confinement. Don't give in and comfort him if he whines when left alone. Instead, give him attention for good behavior, such as chewing on a toy or resting quietly.

* For the first few days, remain calm and quiet around your dog, limiting too much excitement (such as the dog park or neighborhood children). Not only will this allow your dog to settle in easier, it will give you more one-on-one time to get to know him and his likes/dislikes.

* If he came from another home, objects like leashes, hands, rolled up newspapers and magazines, feet, chairs and sticks are just some of the pieces of "training equipment" that may have been used on this dog. Words like "come here" and "lie down" may bring forth a reaction other than the one you expect.

* Or maybe he led a sheltered life and was never socialized to children or sidewalk activity. This dog may be the product of a never-ending series of scrambled communications and unreal expectations that will require patience on your part.

Following Weeks:

People often say they don't see their dog's true personality until several weeks after adoption. Your dog will be a bit uneasy at first as he gets to know you. Be patient and understanding while also keeping to the schedule you intend to maintain for feeding, walks, etc. This schedule will show your dog what is expected of him as well as what he can expect from you.

* After discussing it with your veterinarian to ensure your dog has all the necessary vaccines, you may wish to take your dog to group training classes or the dog park. Pay close attention to your dog's body language to be sure he's having a good time . . . and is not fearful or a dog park bully. If you're unsure of what signs to watch for, look online for signs of dog behavior, or email us directly for more information.

* To have a long and happy life together with your dog, stick to the original schedule you created, ensuring your dog always has the food, potty time and attention he needs. You'll be bonded together in no time!

* If you encounter behavior issues you are unfamiliar with, ask your veterinarian for a trainer recommendation. Select a trainer who uses positive-reinforcement techniques to help you and your dog overcome these behavior obstacles.

Congratulations! If you follow these tips, you'll be on your way to having a well-adjusted canine family member. ♥

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

The Gifted Pet Guide to a Pet-Friendly Valentine’s Day

Valentine Pup

Valentine’s Day can be as much fun for pets as it is for humans if dangerous foods, flora and other items are kept out of paws’ reach. Each year , the ASPCA poison control experts see a rise in cases around February 14, many involving chocolate and lilies, a flower that is potentially fatal to cats. So please heed their experts’ advice . . . . don’t leave the goodies lying around on Valentine's Day.





Pet-Safe Bouquets 

Many pet owners are still unaware that all species of lily are potentially fatal to cats. When sending a floral arrangement, specify that it contain no lilies if the recipient has a cat ~ and when receiving an arrangement, sift through and remove all dangerous flora. If your pet is suffering from symptoms such as stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, he may have ingested an offending flower or plant. Use this online toxic and nontoxic plant library as visual guides of what and what not should be in your bouquets. 


Forbidden Chocolate 

Seasoned pet lovers know the potentially life-threatening dangers of chocolate, including baker’s, semi sweet, milk and dark. In darker chocolates, methylxanthines ~ caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac function ~ can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate. The high-fat content in lighter chocolates can potentially lead to a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Go ahead and indulge, but don’t leave chocolate out for chowhounds to find. 


Careful with Cocktails 

Spilled wine, half a glass of champagne, some leftover liquor are nothing to cry over until a curious pet laps them up. Because animals are smaller than humans, a little bit of alcohol can do a lot of harm, causing vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, metabolic disturbances and even coma. Potentially fatal respiratory failure can also occur if a large enough amount is ingested. 


Life Is Sweet 

Take care not to let pets near treats sweetened with xylitol. If ingested, gum, candy and other treats that include this sweetener can result in a sudden drop in blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. This can cause your pet to suffer depression, loss of coordination and seizures. 

Best Furrends!

Every Rose Has Its Thorn 

Don’t let pets near roses or other thorny stemmed flowers. Biting, stepping on or swallowing their sharp, woody spines can cause serious infection if a puncture occurs. It’s all too easy for pets to step on thorns that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created.  De-thorn your roses far away from pets. 


Playing with Fire 

It’s nice to set your evening a-glow with candlelight, but put out the fire when you leave the room. Pawing kittens and nosy pooches can burn themselves or cause a fire by knocking over unattended candles, and their fur can catch fire should they sweep the flame with their tail. 


Wrap it Up 

Gather up tape, ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, cellophane and balloons after presents have been opened ~ if swallowed, these long, stringy and “fun-to-chew” items can get lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive tract, causing her to choke or vomit.


The Furry Gift of Life? 

Giving a cuddly puppy or kitten may seem a fitting Valentine’s Day gift ~ however, returning a pet you hadn’t planned on is anything but romantic. Companion animals bring with them a lifelong commitment, and choosing a pet for someone else doesn’t always turn out right. Why not let your loved one choose their own pet with a gift certificate to adopt from a rescue or shelter in your area?  Check with your local animal care facilities or take a romantic trip to the shelter together. 

Kiss Me

Healthy Treats!

Be sure to keep healthy treats around for your pets, so they don't feel left out . . . on Valentine's Day, or any other day.  Not sure where to find healthy, safe, never recalled treats?   Look no further!  We have what you need in our premium pet food store!!  Every purchase you make benefits our foundation for rescues and shelters, thank you for shopping where your purchase matters!  ♥

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Pet Adoption 101 ~ Adopting a Rescue or Shelter Pet

Adopting a new pet involves far more than choosing an adorable animal from a rescue website or shelter cage and bringing it home.  Every rescue and shelter has their own unique approach, and set of guidelines to finding new homes for their adoptable pets.  However, most of them do try to balance the interests of the pet and the adopter.  The adoption process usually involves the following steps:

* Filling out an adoption application
* Interview with shelter staff
* Selecting your new pet (if you haven't already from their website)
* Waiting period for reference checks (vet / landlord / etc.)
* Signing an adoption contract and paying fees
* Trial period (some rescues build this in to the process)

Furrends

The Application and Interview

Many pets are surrendered to shelters because people are often unrealistic about the time, effort, money, lifestyle compatibility, and facilities that pets require.  Because of this, shelters often perform vigorous personal interviews to insure a great match for you and your new pet.  You will usually be required to fill out basic contact information, provide photo identification, proof of residence, and proof of prior pet ownership with veterinary and licensing records if applicable.  In addition, the shelter staff will use the following information to help match you with your perfect pet: 


* Reasons for getting a pet (e.g. companion for yourself, children, or another pet; agility dog, etc).
* Number and ages of children and pets you currently have and previous pet experience.
* Facilities or housing situation and whether you rent or own.  Some shelters will require a letter from a landlord stating that pets are allowed.
* Lifestyle information ~ activity level, travel, etc.


Selecting Your New Pet

It can be overwhelming when you arrive at a shelter to see how many choices you have. Before you arrive, it is important to construct a list of desired traits ~ such as coat type, size, shape, temperament, activity level, gender, and age.  As many shelters have purebred dogs and cats, you should also research breeds that appeal to you in both physical and behavioral characteristics.  Some shelters will keep a waiting list and contact you if a particular breed you are looking for becomes available. 

Oftentimes pets that appear quiet, scared or even overly excited are overlooked by potential adopters.  Ask the shelter staff about the personality of each pet you may be interested in. The shelter staff usually has had the opportunity to interact with the animals in various environments and can often assist you in better observing his or her true personality. 

Please feel free to request more information regarding choosing the right pet for your home and your lifestyle!  We are happy to provide you with additional resources to help you make the best decision.  (Messaging and contact information can be found at the end of this article!)

Shelter Dog Waiting for Adoption!

Waiting Period

Many shelters and rescue groups will require a waiting period of 24 to 48 hours (or more) before allowing you to take your new pet home.  This is intended to give families time to discuss the decision of getting a pet and make sure it is not just an impulse.  A family must be emotionally, financially and personally ready to take on the responsibility of a new pet.  It is important that all members of a family are "on board" with getting a pet and everyone is committed to its care.  It must be decided who will feed, groom, exercise and pick up after a pet in advance.  This waiting period also gives prospective families time to prepare their home for a new pet.  


Adoption Contract and Fees

Most shelters require that you sign a contract when you adopt a pet.  These contracts will often require that adopters be responsible for:

* Spaying or neutering (though many times this is included in the adoption fee, especially with older pets)
* Provision of suitable housing (not dumping your pet outdoors in harsh climate conditions!), nutrition and health care
* Return of the animal to the shelter if an adopter can no longer care for him or her
* Associated costs of adopting the pet

Some shelters also require post-adoption visits by shelter staff.  In almost all cases, you will need to pay an adoption fee to the shelter.  Also, if the animal has experienced significant health care costs while at the shelter, they may ask the adopter to help with the costs. Shelters always appreciate contributions toward their programs and facilities. 

Trial Period

Many shelters offer a trial period that allows you to take your new pet home to determine how he or she does in their new environment.  This is particularly important if there are already pets or children in a household.  Occasionally a behavioral or medical problem may be discovered that was not noticed in the shelter.  Some shelters offer post-adoption assistance with minor behavioral or adjustment problems.  If the adopter or shelter feel the match is not a good one, the animal can be returned during this trial period to the shelter without penalty. 

Again, please feel free to request further information regarding your new pet into your home and family!  We are happy to provide you with additional resources to help you make the transition as smooth as possible. (Messaging and contact information can be found at the end of this article!)

Many shelters have information about their specific adoption process on their websites so you can prepare in advance.  Although this process may seem extensive, it is beneficial to all parties involved ~ you will have a relationship with your pet for the lifetime of the pet,  so it is worth the time and effort to insure the best match possible.

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Dog Adoption Checklist

Congratulations on deciding to adopt a dog! You are embarking on a wonderful and rewarding relationship. Because adopting a new dog comes with a lot of change for both dog and dog parent, we’ve compiled a checklist to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Questions for All Adopters:

* Do you have any other dogs and how will they react to a new dog?

* Is your current residence suited to the dog you’re considering?

* How will your social life or work obligations affect your ability to care for a dog?

* Do you have a plan for your new dog during vacations and/or work travel?

* How do the people you live with feel about having a dog in the house?

* Are you (or your spouse, partner or roommate) intolerant of hair, dirt and other realities of sharing your home with a dog, such as allergies?

* Do you or any of your household/family members have health issues that may be affected by a dog?

* What breed of dog is the best fit with your current lifestyle? (You can find information on specific breeds in Petfinder's dog breed directory.)

* Is there tension in the home? Dogs quickly pick up on stress in the home, and it can exacerbate their health and behavior problems.

* Is there an adult in the family who has agreed to be ultimately responsible for the dog’s care?

Other Considerations:

* What do you expect your dog to contribute to your life? For example, do you want a running and hiking buddy, or is your idea of exercise watching it on TV?

* If you are thinking of adopting a young dog, do you have the time and patience to work with the dog through its adolescence, taking house-breaking, chewing and energy-level into account? (Find more information on raising young dogs in Petfinder's Puppy Guide.)

* Have you considered your lifestyle carefully and determined whether a younger or older dog would be a better match for you?

* Can you train and handle a dog with behavior issues or are you looking for an easy-going friend?

* Do you need a dog who will be reliable with children or one you can take with you when you travel?

* Do you want a dog who follows you all around the house or would you prefer a less clingy, more independent character?

Size Considerations:

* What size dog can your home accommodate?

* Will you have enough room if your dog grows to be bigger than expected?

* What size dog would suit the other people who live in or visit your home regularly?

* Do you have another dog to consider when choosing the size of your next dog?

* How big a dog can you travel comfortably with?

Dog Costs:

* More likely than not, the adopting agency will charge a fee to help defray the cost of taking in unwanted or lost animals. The adoption fee you pay will be a tiny fraction of the money you will spend over the life of your dog.

* You may need to pay for your adopted dog to be spayed or neutered before bringing him or her home.

* Some expenses are mandatory for all dogs, including:
~ Food
~ Routine veterinary care
~ Licensing according to local regulations
~ Collars, leashes and identification tags
~ Basic grooming equipment and supplies.

Other expenditures may not be required but are highly recommended:
~ Permanent identification, such as a microchip or tattoo
~ Training classes
~ Additional grooming supplies or professional grooming (depending on your new dog’s needs)
~ A spare collar or leash
~ A bed and toys
~ A crate or carrier

* Unexpected costs: Accidents and illness can result in costly emergency veterinary care. 
Recovery tools for finding a missing dog can include posters and rewards.

* A dog with special physical or behavioral challenges may require specialized professional support to overcome any obstacles these issues present.

* For more on typical dog care costs visit Annual Dog Care Costs.

Time Considerations:

* Dogs need to be fed two to three times a day, more often in the case of puppies, and need a constant supply of fresh water.

* A responsible dog parent should spend at least one hour per day giving direct attention to his or her dog. This may include training, exercising, grooming, and playing or, with cats, may just be lap time on the couch. Dogs will need to be taken out to potty several times a day.

* A dog with an abundance of energy needs more time to exercise and interactive toys to keep them entertained.

* Dogs with long coats need 20 minutes a day of grooming to prevent matting.

* Dogs with certain medical conditions may need additional attention, including specifically timed injections in the case of diabetic animals.

* Remember that adopted dogs may need additional bonding and reassurance time in the early weeks.

Shopping Checklist:

It may be a good idea to wait until you select your new dog before you begin shopping for supplies. For example, some items, such as food and water bowls or collars and harnesses, depend upon the size of the dog you will be adopting.

Also, be sure to find out which food your dog was eating in the shelter or foster home so that you can provide the same in the beginning, again to ease the transition. Many times the rescue or foster will give you enough of the current food to help you with the transition to the new food.  As your dog is settling in,  you can begin the transition to the food of your choice. We recommend Life's Abundance All Life Stage Adult Dog Food, or Puppy Food.  

Once you’ve selected your dog, here’s a checklist of supplies you may need:

* Necessary Items for Dogs:
* Food and water bowls
* Food (canned and/or dry)
* Collar
* Six-foot or retractable leash
* ID tag with your phone number
* Hard plastic carrier or foldable metal crate
* Dog bed
* Doggy shampoo and conditioner
* Nail clippers
* Canine toothbrush, toothpaste, or doggy dental wipes
* Brush or comb (depends on your dog’s coat length and type)
* Super-absorbent paper towels
* Sponge and scrub brush
* Non-toxic cleanser
* Enzymatic odor neutralizer
* Plastic poop baggies (biodegradable ones are best) or pooper scooper
* Absorbent house-training pads
* Variety of toys (a ball, rope, chew toy and puzzle toy are good starts)
* Variety of treats (such as small cookies, larger rawhides, etc.)
* First-aid supplies
* Baby gate(s) or crate, if preferred

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Guinea Pigs as Pets ~ Things You Should Know

Guinea Pigs can be lovely pets, but there are a few things you should know before getting a pet Guinea Pig. From expected life span to the social nature of Guinea Pigs, here are some things to consider before choosing a Guinea Pig as a pet.

1. Guinea Pigs Are a Long Term Commitment ~ Guinea Pigs live on average around 5-7 years, sometimes longer, so be prepared to provide care over the long term.

2. Guinea Pigs are Social - Plan on Keeping More than One ~ Guinea Pigs are very social animals, and will be happiest living with other Guinea Pigs (and don't worry, they will still bond with their owners, too). Keep a same sex pair; females can be kept together as can males, though sometimes individual differences will mean certain Guinea Pigs won't get along. Introducing them as babies is the best way to get a pair to bond, though even adults can usually be introduced with care.

3. Guinea Pigs Need a Large Cage ~ Guinea Pigs need a lot of floor space, and most cages marketed as Guinea Pig cages are much too small, especially for a pair. Making a homemade cage is very easy, though, and since Guinea Pigs are a good size and not escape artists, making homemade cages is a great option.

4. Guinea Pigs are Generally Quiet, But Can Wheek Loudly ~ Guinea Pigs make a distinctive wheeking or whistling type sound, often in anticipation of getting a favorite treat or when in need of some attention. Though generally not loud enough to annoy the neighbors, a wheeking Guinea Pig can be surprisingly loud.

5. Guinea Pigs are Generally Easy to Tame ~ While Guinea Pigs may be nervous or skittish at first, with consistent gentle handling, they usually become tame very easily. Careful handling is a must, and children should be supervised with them, but they are unlikely to bite even when stressed.

6. Guinea Pigs Require Vitamin C ~ Guinea Pigs are one of the few animals (humans are another) that cannot manufacture their own vitamin C, so they will need to get adequate vitamin C from their diet. Choosing a good quality diet and providing a variety of fresh foods is important, but most owners choose to also give a vitamin C supplement ~ and tablets are generally a better way to supplement than adding vitamin C to the water.

7. Guinea Pigs are Often Available at Shelters ~ Before heading out to buy a Guinea Pig, please check with your local shelters or rescues for Guinea Pigs in need of a new home (or check on Petfinder.com). Many Guinea Pigs end up at shelters, and are in need of a second chance at a forever home ~ and Guinea Pigs are generally so social and easy going, it should still be easy to bond with even an older piggie! ♥

Adopting vs. Shopping . . . .

People are often unaware that a local shelter has guinea pigs, or that a cavy rescue is located nearby. In many parts of the country, hundreds of rescued guinea pigs need homes-primarily as a result of caretaker surrenders. Doug Duke, director of the Nevada SPCA in Las Vegas, finds that half are turned in by owners and the other half are rescued from the county. He notes, “We try to keep the county shelter, which shares the complex with us, from euthanizing any who are healthy.”

A prospective guinea pig guardian typically visits a pet store first. But many pet stores house both males and females together and occasionally sell incorrectly sexed cavies. This increases the odds that a breeding pair has been sold or that a young undeveloped sow is already pregnant when purchased (sows can become pregnant as early as four weeks of age). Other pet caretakers intentionally breed their guinea pigs “to see what it’s like”; add in the many non show-quality cavies produced by breeders and the number of guinea pigs needing homes continues to grow.

A pet store guinea pig purchase is often unplanned and unresearched. Getting information on proper care into the hands of prospective new guardians helps them make better-informed decisions. Since January 1, 2003, California pet stores have been required by law to provide care sheets with the purchase of each animal. Several dedicated guinea pig people were instrumental in getting this legislation passed. Be proactive: encourage your state representatives to address this important issue for all pet-store animals in your state.

Julie Morris, ASPCA senior vice president for National Shelter Outreach, designated March as Adopt-a-Rescued-Guinea Pig celebration month. “The idea behind the celebration month is to encourage future adopters to think of shelters and rescue groups first.” Her promotional team has assembled an online page hosted on www.petfinder.com with fun and educational materials contributed from various sources. Internet sites like Petfinder.com, are an invaluable resource for people who wish to adopt homeless guinea pigs from shelters and rescue groups. Last year Petfinder alone listed over 10,000 guinea pigs.

Guinea pigs are not for everyone. They’re definitely not just for kids! But an informed, committed guardian who is willing to care for them day after day and seek health care when needed will find them charming companions.

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com