MPR: Current Cue: Adopt Conscientiously

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December 19, 2005

Adopt Conscientiously

I have many causes I feel strongly about, some more politically charged than others (and thus not appropriate for this space, nor any other sponsored by my gracious employer). But one that's a bit less controversial is my conviction that the adoption of animals is something that shouldn't be done impulsively.

I bring this up because, with Christmas just days away, there will be the hard-to-resist urge in many households to get that puppy or kitten that your kids have been begging you for all year long. I guess the bottom line is this: I won't say don't do it (unlike some others who's opinions I strongly think you should read anyway), but please just be sure you have fully considered what adopting a pet means before you take that step.

I know my pal Lucia is quite sensitive to the plight of our furry friends, and I want to make it clear that I don't assume to speak for her specific beliefs here ... these are my own. There are thousands of animals waiting to be adopted around the Twin Cities every day, who deserve a caring household. Yours could be one. However, Christmas is a sketchy time to do this, because the urge to create that golden "dogfood-commercial-moment" in your household can overtake your abilities to determine whether or not this really is the right thing for your family at this time. And if your family is simply not up to the task of daily feeding, caring, walking, training, and all that stuff right now, well, you shouldn't adopt. Families that adopt carelessly are the reason many dogs wind up in need of "rescue," after all.

If you are ready, however -- you've done the research, know exactly what you're getting into with a rescue or have identified a reputable breeder -- then may your days be merry and bright with the new member of your family.

Posted by Steve Seel at 5:41 PM

Comments

I'm a volunteer at the Minnesota Valley Humane Society, where I walk and care for dogs. (I was also a dog walker at the American Humane Society in Golden Valley, for four years). You'd think I'd get used to the sheer idiocy of my fellow human beings, but no, I'm constantly surprised at how often someone will adopt a dog (or other animal) on a whim - because it's cute, because it's the holiday season, because (fill in blank with idiotic reason)...
For years, our shelter has refused to adopt out rabbits the weeks before Easter, because we KNOW they'll be returned to us after the children get bored with it. People have to realize that animals are LIVING BEINGS, NOT THINGS. Dogs (especially smaller breeds) can live 12-18 years, and cats (inside cats, anyway) can live 15-20 years. And yeah, they're a BIG responsibility.
(Sorry, your post obviously touched a nerve with me.) I'm glad you wrote about this issue, Steve - maybe more people will understand that it's better to research and really THINK about what it means to bring an animal into the household.
Although we have dog counselors at the humane society, who talk at length with the adoptive family, on occasion we STILL have dogs returned to us the NEXT DAY, because they weren't "fitting in"! And at Christmastime, which is more hectic and busier than any other time of year, it's hard to imagine a dog or cat feeling at ease and comfortable or getting the attention it truly needs in a new home.
Oh, by the way... one of Katz's articles has to do with pit bulls. I've been involved with dogs my entire life, and this is my take on it: ANY DOG CAN BITE. ANY DOG can cause immeasurable damage to another animal or human, NOT just pit bulls. Yes, their jaws are extremely strong, but ANY DOG can tear and bite into flesh and muscle. Believe me. Even a young puppy can bite, very hard, and penetrate skin in a heartbeat.

There are no bad dogs, only bad dog owners.

Posted by Zeldapie at December 20, 2005 3:58 PM

You tell 'em, Zelda & Seel!

Posted by auntie at December 20, 2005 8:18 PM

I couldn't agree more with what's already been said. This is a topic that should be brought up at Christmas and Easter every year.

Is that the same Jon Katz from the animated series, "Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist?" I loved that show.

Posted by Jim at December 21, 2005 8:46 AM

Jim -- no, he's a different guy. I enjoyed that show too, though, although I was never quite sure why ...

Posted by Steve Seel at December 21, 2005 4:26 PM

Zelda -- thanks so much for chipping in on this. Your direct experience was what my missive was missing.

Posted by Steve Seel at December 21, 2005 4:27 PM

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