If you're thinking of becoming a pet owner, or if you already are a pet owner and want to learn some extra tips and tricks, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has some great resources for Responsible Pet Ownership. Having a pet really is the same responsible as having a human child, instead you've got a "fur-baby," and we need to do our part to help those who can't help themselves. You've got to ensure they are properly socialized (if applicable), seen by the vet regularly, spayed/neutered (if applicable), up to date on vaccines, have enough food and water, get enough exercise, and more! You must also be aware of local ordinances and regulations regarding owning a pet.
Another thing to think about in terms of owning a pet is the financial impact it will have on your budget. To put it in perspective, the average monthly cost to own a dog in 2022 is between $40 - $290. The average monthly cost to own a cat is around $53. Those numbers are for the average healthy pet, not needing emergency healthcare or recurring medicines, etc. As you can see, over a lifespan of a pet, it can get very pricey!
If you've done your research and decided that your family is ready to add a fur-baby to it, then look no further than our own backyard! There are many rescue organizations and humane societies in Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach that are overflowing with pets in need....dogs, cats, bunnies, you name it! I've listed some below for your reference.
2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, FL 33916
Phone: (239) 332 0364
Doghouse Rescue & Dog Training
PO Box 1012, Alva, FL 33920
Available by appointment only and via email.
An online pet adoption lookup tool!
An online pet adoption lookup tool!
Lee County Domestic Animal Services
5600 Banner Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33912
Phone: (239) 533-7387
18011 Old Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers, FL 33917
Phone: (239) 731-3535
Photo Credit: Arianna Dabu, Macaroni KID Fort Myers - Fort Myers Beach
Many of these same places offer the opportunity to FOSTER a pet. I am also a foster volunteer. The duties mainly entail giving the pet a temporary loving home and care, until they find their furever home! Most of the time, the shelter will pay for medical expenses, food, and supply you with everything necessary. You may be required to take the foster animal to events, adoption meet and greets, to the veterinarian for regular visits, amongst other things. The best part is being able to take an animal in, which enables to brick and mortar shelter/rescue to take in another animal in need. A lot of times animals can fail in a shelter like setting, which is terrible! Things we can do to support the shelters include monetary donations, volunteer hours, food and supply donations, or even fostering and adopting.
* Show Me Your Pets *
All of this being said, in honor of National Pet Month, I'd like to see all of YOUR PETS! Please email me the following information, in order to be featured in a special article in next week's newsletter!
- A photo of your fur (or feather! or scaly!) baby
- Their name and age
- A short and sweet bio of them, how they make your life that much better, their favorite toy and why, or anything else you'd like to share!
Here's an example about my own dog:
Meet Simba, a 3.5 year old American Pit Bull Terrier & Catahoula Leopard Dog mix!
He is an 80 lb lapdog who loves his red JollyPets ball, snuggles, and to howl with us when we sing!
