How to Care for Your Pet

A Guide for Kids by Kids

You might want to get a pet, but first there are a few things you need to know. We have listed some basic necessities down below. Owning a pet is not only just playing around, you need to be responsible as well. For more information watch this video: (video link) or visit some of the sites listed.

 
 
 
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What Supplies Will I Need?

CATS-Food and water bowls: clean regularly. Purina and Hills/Science Diet are some recommended food brands -Collars:Make sure to attach an ID card with your phone number and medical info, especially if you have an outdoor cat -Litter boxes: Start wi…

CATS

-Food and water bowls: clean regularly. Purina and Hills/Science Diet are some recommended food brands -Collars:Make sure to attach an ID card with your phone number and medical info, especially if you have an outdoor cat

-Litter boxes: Start with quality non-clumping litter. To get your cat used to using a litter box, set the cat inside the box. Give the cat treats when the litter box is used. Scoop out the litter box daily. Change the litter when odor isn’t controlled, then clean the box itself(avoid bleach).

-Brush/Combs: Cats do groom themselves, but it is important to brush/comb them as well.

-Toys: toys come in many shapes and sizes. Make sure to do your research before buying something to make sure it’s safe.

-Scratching posts- these will prevent your pet from tearing up your furniture. Cats tend to like taller scratching posts

DOGS-Food and Water Bowls: Should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria. Blue Buffalo & Hills/Science diet are recommended, but any food without dyes or fillers is healthy.-Leashes: Harnesses are good for energetic or small dogs, as they are …

DOGS

-Food and Water Bowls: Should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria. Blue Buffalo & Hills/Science diet are recommended, but any food without dyes or fillers is healthy.

-Leashes: Harnesses are good for energetic or small dogs, as they are harder to escape. They also reduce the risk of neck injury. Collars are good for calmer dogs, as well as long-haired ones, as they are more comfortable and less likely to catch on fur.

-Brush or Comb: Groom your animal regularly to stimulate shinier and healthier coats. Grooming reduces shedding and prevents and removes mats. While combing and brushing your animal be gentle, so you don’t scratch their skin.

-Beds: These keep the dog warm, help with arthritic issues, and give the dog a familiar place to sleep while traveling.

-Toys: Balls, plushies, discs, and sticks- anything from Pet Supermarket or PetSense is good -Waste bags-it is your responsibility to pick up after your pet

BUNNIES-Portable wire exercise pen: These provide exercise, space, and a clean environment while keeping your bunny in a secluded area -Outlet/Wire Covers: Prevents rabbits from chewing into outlets and cords. Chewing into these can cause harm to th…

BUNNIES

-Portable wire exercise pen: These provide exercise, space, and a clean environment while keeping your bunny in a secluded area -Outlet/Wire Covers: Prevents rabbits from chewing into outlets and cords. Chewing into these can cause harm to the rabbit and damage your property.

- Litter Boxes: Clean litter boxes at least every other day. Once a week is not enough. Basic cat litter pans can be used.

-Food and water: Hay and pellets. Oxbow, Kaytee, and Sherwood are recommended brands for adult rabbits. Sunseed and Sherwood are good for younger ones, and Standlee is good brand of hay.

-Chew toys: these keep your bunny’s teeth at a healthy size. Wood or cotton towels are good substitutes for store bought toys, but make sure you do your research first -Nail clippers: Do not use human nail clippers on rabbits. They are not designed to be used for them

 

Why Rescue Rocks!

Below are just some of the reasons you should consider adopting your next pet from a shelter or rescue!

  • Not all pet stores and breeders are reputable. Many are great, but please do your research! Lots of puppies and kittens that come from stores are from mills that are only interested in making a profit. They want as many animals as possible as fast as possible. These animals are often sick and because of lack of human companionship the animals have bad socialization skills. Some animals have genetic defects due to inbreeding.

  • There are lots of rescue groups out there! You can choose from a great selection of animals. Also, mutts/mixed animals are more likely to live longer and cost less for vet bills than pure breeds -You are assisting a nonprofit organization -You pay less, because the adoption cost of non-for-profit animals is less than the adoption cost of sold for profit animals -You are giving an animal a second chance at life -You can adopt a trained dog