by John Piggott
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Owning a pet is for life - most responsible people know that, or should.
But what if our pet outlives us? Cats, for example, have been known to live for 16 years and more. What should we do to make sure they continue to be cherished and cared for?
It's a thought that troubles Lyn Wilson, of the Sydney-based Cat Defence Network, who said seniors need to make plans for the care of their pets should they no longer be around.
Lyn said her group is often contacted by families wanting it to take in a relative's cat - something it doesn't have the space to do; she has 40 already!
"The time to think ahead is now, " she said. "You always think people will do the right thing but sometimes this just doesn't happen."
Sadly, sometimes relatives simply dump the pet and leave it to look after itself and wander around distressed and hungry, with all the hazards that brings.
Some perfectly healthy pets are taken to the straight to the vet to be put down. Others go to pounds and shelters, not all of which have a no-kill policy for unwanted pets.
Lyn said pairing your pet with the right person is vital, since not everyone is good with animals.
"They (the new carer) have to be prepared to understand what's involved," Lyn said. "They will have to understand that there will be vet bills. They must understand that some cats climb curtains, some cats wreck lounges. Plus their pets may have needs that only you may know about." The good news is that if someone has to go to hospital in a hurry, police and paramedics will always try to ensure that a pet is never left alone.
But it's not always obvious who this is. Lyn said that to make it easier, it's a good idea to put an easy-to-read sign on your door stating something like: "I have __ cats and __ dogs. In the event of an emergency please contact ____ (name) on ____ (phone number) and they will care for my pets."
Lyn said any new carer should have a medical history of your pet on hand. This should include things like their vet, illnesses and vaccinations. It's also important to note what they and will not eat; you would be amazed a how particular some are.
"We just want people to think ahead before Puss gets put out on street," Lyn said.
How to plan ahead for your pet
- The network recommends pet owners line up a suitable carer now. Here are some points to consider:
- Pets need stability, ruling out people who move homes a lot; also, renters might not be allowed to keep a pet.
- Pets need continuity: A healthy kitten will likely outlive an elderly new carer, some of whom may have, or develop, health issues of their own.
- Pets require patience: not everyone is able to cope with a young, playful cat or an older infirm one.
- Pets cost money: new carers will be prepared for food, veterinary and occasionally boarding costs.
- Pets adjust to change slowly: a new carer needs to know how to introduce an anxious pet into a new environment.
