Community Corner
Critter Corner: Planning for the Future Welfare of Your Pet
When owners pass away animals are often left homeless.
Death and taxes are inevitable, yet not a subject that people consider when adding a pet to their family. Most people assume their relatives will gladly adopt their furry, feathered or scaled animals, should their pet outlive them. Sadly this is not the case. Dogs and cats often live 15 years, cockatoos 65 years, and turtles 40 years in captivity.
Housing restrictions, work schedules and the costs of taking care of an unexpected pet can also discourage relatives from hurrying to adopt. According to the ASPCA, a medium dog incurs costs of about $1,500 annually and a cat about $1,000. Keep these figures in mind when providing for your pet.
Take time to discuss your pets and adoption options with people close to you. There are stories of extravagance, like Leona Helmsley leaving $12 million to her dog Trouble, yet not all are financially able to provide such excess. Neighbors and friends help out but often must "depend on the kindness of strangers" to place an animal in a new home.
Here is Friskie’s story, as told by Donna Liebenauer, as he reaches out to Hillcrest residents.
Hi! My name is Friskie. My beloved person is losing his battle with cancer and is at our home in hospice care. Although my situation is urgent, I plan to stay with my person until he leaves this earth. My companionship is giving him comfort. I have been with him since I was a puppy. I am now 8 years young. I lost my mom guardian a few years ago and soon I will be all alone. No suitable homes from friends or family have been found. I am a sweet female beagle and fox terrier mix. I have done well with other dogs. I do not live with cats or children, but when I have been around them I did fine too. I am a very nervous, submissive dog, so I would thrive in a quiet, laid-back home. Some activity would be OK. I have a great spirit and just want lots of love and belly rubs!
I was never spayed, but if the vet clears it, I will be fixed before adoption. I will also be microchipped and updated on shots before going to my forever home. If serious about adopting me, please contact my neighbor, Donna at donnamay93@gmail.com or 440-785-7163. Email may be best for initial contact.
Adoption application, home visit and adoption fee required.