Suleika Acosta, KOLD News 13 Reporter
KOLD News
Oct 15, 2007 12:44 AM
You probably know about the hundreds of
dogs and cats at the Humane Society waiting for homes. But
did you know 30 ferrets are also up for adoption along with
numerous gerbils and rabbits? We investigate why they're ending
up there.
Happy homes mean happy pets. But if you
choose to adopt an animal other than a cat or dog, you might
be in for a lot more than you expected. Ferret Expert Larisa Thomas says these furry finds are often bought in pet stores as starter pets but new parents can be in for a surprise.
"They bring them home and say oh my gosh,
they're so much work. They never grow up. They're like little
kittens their entire lives."
That's why Larisa teaches kids how to
properly handle these pets so they don't end up in shelters.
"We're trying to educate young people
so they don't jump into the ferret game and buy ferrets without
knowing the job that's before them," explains Larisa.
That tough job includes several hours
of playtime and supervision everyday. Ferret cages and litter
boxes must be cleaned out daily.
Not knowing the simple rules for care
could mean trouble for any small pet.
"Inappropriate housing, handling, diets
and very often those animals either get sick or they die as
a result of that," says Marsh Myers with the humane
society.
Animal experts say you should always know
what you're getting into before you buy a small pet. Do research
and educate your family on proper diet and grooming. Impulse
buys are never a good idea.
"Your responsibility to that animal is
exactly the same as if it were a dog or a cat it's not different
legally, it's no different morally. If it's not appropriate
for your lifestyle remember that it is a responsible decision
not to own that animal," adds Myers.
CLICK
HERE TO ADOPT A FERRET OR SMALL PET FROM THE HUMANE SOCIETY
OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA.
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