Merry Christmas and happy gift-giving! This column is devoted to all who love to give and those who love to receive. That's just about all of us, I'd say. Here are a few animal-related tips for the holidays:
Tip #1: If you wish to give a gift of a pet, consider what the pet is going through--an unfamiliar place, smells and humans. Pet: "I'm scared! What is this place? Who are these faces, what are these smells?" The pet will do what frightened animals do; he will try to hide, and when there is no hiding place he will lash out in fear--biting and snarling and scratching. He will probably also tinkle several times. So where's the fun in that? The recipient feels cheated; this isn't the sweet pet she had her heart set on. You become a bad gift-giver.
A better way is to take a photo of the pet-to-be and wrap it up with a collar and a leash and a treat. Tell the recipient this gift will come in 2 or 3 days, or whenever the hilarity of the holidays has subsided. Everyone will be happier, and there will be no stress on the pet. Everybody wins. Pet: "I'm so delighted! This place seems so calm and non-threatening...I'm going to like it here." You are now a good gift-giver.
Tip #2: Be sure your house is pet-friendly. Remember that puppies chew. They will chew anything and everything. This isn't a bad behavior; this is what they do. Their teeth are new and probably itch, just like a baby human. So remove the enticing cords and shoes and rugs and anything else you can think of, and make chewy treats available. Also consider this little guy must be trained to go outside. The very first thing in the morning, immediately after a meal, last thing before bedtime. Plus a few times during the day would be smart. Lots of praise after doing what he should, and he'll soon get the hang of it. If the gift is a kitten, show him the litter box. And change the litter (or scoop it) often. Cool, fresh water daily is also a must for all pets. Remember - they can't turn on the faucet or whip up scrambled eggs. If you have a pet, you must provide for it.
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