Pet Habits Go with Pet Ownership

If you get annoyed by your pet's habits, just imagine how they would feel about yours! Late nights? Running the annoying vacuum? Forgetting walk them or change the litter box? Your pet thinks: "Oh the nerve of you!"

I've known people who should never have welcomed pets into their home. I've always thought of my cats as part of my family, and as with family, I have learned to adjust to their habits just as they've learned to adjust to mine. Those who are unable to adjust to an animal's habits should not own an animal. Period.

I'm not arguing against pet discipline, because just as with human kids, pets do need to be taught what is acceptable and what is not acceptable behavior. Any sort of violent behavior on behalf of a cat or dog is usually signs of a more serious ailment, and thus should be examined by a veterinarian.

It is inexcusable, however, to purchase a pet and regard this animal as an object, rather than some living being. I've had vet clinics tell me that one woman wanted to put her seven year old cat to sleep because he was defecating outside the litter pan. Needless to say, the clinic refused and the cat was removed from the woman's house. I've known others to adopt puppies, only to give them away six months later when they find the responsibility is too great to bear. And this has nothing to do with the economic recession; these individuals simply did not want to give of their time. I was always astounded at the level of emotional detachment one could feel towards this little animal that has placed its trust in you. Why would anyone want to let it down?

I knew of another man who upon moving to another state, claimed he "wanted to give his dog up to animal control" but ultimately did not, because his kids would have been upset, to say the least. He also informed me that his dog was never allowed into the house, but instead was forced to sleep in the garage. His reason? He did not want to get hair all over the house.

It's not that I think this individual is evil per se, but simply someone who should not own animals. If you welcome a dog or cat in your house, be prepared for them to shed. If you don't want to risk a young kitten shredding your furniture, get the kitten declawed. Part of being a responsible adult is knowing the responsibilities that go into any endeavor, and that applies to the adoption of any living being, be it human or animal. If you are unable to feel empathy towards animals, then you should not own one.

Pets, like children, are rambunctious, pesky, at times sick and need your care, they get into messes, and never seem to listen. Yet they are in need of you to teach them, love them, care for them. It is up to the owner to be the adult, to know the behavior patterns and habits of any animal before choosing to allow that animal into the home. Think of that young cat or dog as you bring it into your home. It is in unfamiliar surrounds and will likely be scared. It needs you. Knowing what those needs are and learning to live with them: that's what being a pet owner is all about.