Rescued Pets

Almost every pet I have ever owned has been a rescued pet. The first pet I had was a beautiful long haired dog of unknown breed that my sister found advertised in the newspaper. How well I remember our first meeting. Had I known what a hyper dog she'd be I probably would not have taken her. But she was so adorable, I couldn't help but say I wanted her. She gave me lessons in patience, especially that first year. The picture below of a Pumi dog isn't my dog, but it looks almost exactly like her.

Several years later came my tuxedo cat. He was the cutest little thing I had ever seen! I had always wanted a cat. There he was bouncing around at the vintage shop my mom and I were visiting. The shop owner had rescued him off a busy street just that morning. I took him home that day, and he's turned out to be a great cat with my daughter. He's pretty proud of himself. :)

The latest addition to our pet collection were two retired Labrador breeders. Gabe and Elly. They certainly have had the least chance of becoming acclimated to socialized dog life. Gabe went to Happy Hunting Grounds just two weeks ago. Elly is extremely fearful of people and any sudden movement. Yet I believe that with a lot of time and patience she can become a wonderful companion.

There is something wonderful in giving an animal a chance to a good home. I am not against breeding dogs or cats or buying a brand new puppy from a breeder. I am just pondering on the fact that rescued animals can make great pets too, if given the chance. Most of my experiences with rescued pets has been good. I never had a vicious pet. (Aside from a male rabbit I had for a couple weeks. He would spray me with pee whenever he felt like it..yuck!)

So if you want a pet and don't have the money to afford a fancy pure bred, give the shelter or newspaper pet a visit and let some dog or cat enjoy a second chance at life.

By the way, you might want your dog to have a collar and leash set like the one below found at the Florida Tails Pet Accessories Shop. That way everyone will know you rescued a pet without you even having to tell them. Perhaps you might inspire someone to do the same.