Letters: Making pet adoption permanent
Re “Do pets require perfection?,” Column, March 8
There are the many people who are informed, responsible pet owners, and there are others who believe that having a dog requires only love and attention.
The highest priority for dog rescues is to find homes where a dog will be well cared for and part of a family. If rescues did not carefully screen applicants, adoptions would largely become temporary instead of forever.
Many people have little knowledge of the needs of dogs. Dogs are pack animals and generally do not do well when left alone.
At rescue events, prospective guardians who need an education will often pick out the best-looking dog. They are usually offended when they are asked pertinent questions about how they would care for the dog.
Sandy Banks seems to suggest that income should not be a factor in determining whether someone is qualified to be a dog owner. Veterinary bills for simple illnesses usually are hundreds of dollars, and serious diseases can cost thousands to treat. This is a responsibility people take on when adopting a dog.
Robert Smith
Fillmore
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