Q: I found a puppy that seems sickly and I was wondering what I should do with it.
A: Unfortunately, I get this question very frequently. It seems that a lot of people don't take pets as a serious responsibility and leave them off various places when they become inconvenient.
When you pick up the stray animal, it becomes your responsibility, so you need to be prepared to pay to have the animal cared for. I provide emergency care for these cases, but I really appreciate a donation to defray my costs. My time is is usually donated. gratis.
If you pick up a sick animal, be sure that all your own animals have current vaccinations. Take care that you are not bitten in the process of picking up the animal, and take it to a veterinarian. If the animal appears healthy, you should take it home and place a found animal ad in the local paper which is usually free. If the animal is not claimed, you can try to place it in a home, or you can keep it yourself.
Remember, that when
you get a pet, it is a lifetime responsibility, and be sure to
spay and neuter your animals to prevent this kind of fate for
critters. Also, keep all vaccinations current.
countryclassicsnaches@hotmail.com
Kaia Sorem, DVM
WSU 1984
Veterinary Service
Pet Grooming
Country Classics Antiques
Hwy. 12 & 410 across from Slim's Market
Naches WA 98937
1-509-653-2108
Past Dr. Kaia columns:
Sept. 17, 2003 Found Sickly Puppy
Sept. 10, 2003 Horse Not Conditioned Properly
Aug. 27, 2003 Barrel Horse Anxious and Unwilling
Aug. 20, 2003 Cats Get Tumors From Vaccines?
Aug. 13, 2003 Horse Unshod All Year?