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ELIZABETH
RANDOLPH'S TOP TIPS Many people choose to bring a new pet into their family in the summertime. The children are out of school and, for most of the country, it is easier to house train a puppy in sunny July than in freezing January. Award-winning pet author, Elizabeth Randolph, provides these suggestions for prospective owners to consider before they acquire a puppy, kitten or any type of pet. 1. Be sure you really want a pet and want to keep it. "It is tragic how many people rent summer homes, get a pet, and then abandon it at the end of the summer. Pet ownership is a lifetime commitment," she stresses. "I hope people will take the time to think about that before they get an animal." 2. Do research first. "Find out about the characteristics of the pet you are considering and what type of care and how much care that type of pet will require," she advised. "Even otherwise responsible people sometimes don't know how to go about getting a pet. It is so important to get as much information as possible and make an informed choice rather than picking the first cute animal you see." 3. See both parents, if possible. Go to AKC dog shows or CFA cat shows in your area and talk with breeders. "Like people, animals inherit traits from their parents," she said. "If you are getting an animal from a breeder, meet the parents, or at least, the mother." Another way to find a pet is though a recognized breed rescue organization. These groups will carefully examine animals for their suitability as pets and be sources of information to the new owners as well. For information on specific breeds, breeder referral or rescue organizations, Randolph suggests contacting the American Kennel Club, www.akc.org or the Cat Fanciers' Association, www.cfainc.org, to find rescue information on this site, click on "Fanc-e-Mews." 4. Be prepared. "A new puppy or kitten is a lot like a baby," she noted. "We can't assume that they'll grow up on their own. New owners should look into what is required from equipment to health care and training and make the commitment to provide for their new pet's needs." 5. Most of all be aware. "You are taking on a living creature," Randolph stressed. "A creature that deserves your respect and attention throughout its life. A cat or dog may shed, throw up or have an accident on the carpet. This is part of pet ownership. They also provide love and companionship and should never be thought of as something that can be thrown away if it becomes inconvenient." ###
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