The Central Aroostook Humane Society is in need of your newspapers! If you have newspapers that you have read, donate them to the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We fold them, layer them and use them in our cat cages. Due to efficient people folding our papers, we are out. Come on folks, what an awesome way to recycle!
Many people get animals without completely knowing the whole story of how much this venture will cost them. I am not going to quote you prices for medical attention, but I will give you some expenses to consider: rabies shots, the altering of the animal, litter, food, leashes, a kennel for safe transporting, visits to the vet and then there are the unexpected things like illness, eye infections, urinary tract infections, worming and various others. Cats are generally less expensive to own than a dog, but like a jet, if you have to ask how much it costs to own one, you probably can’t afford one!
Let’s talk cats. First of all you have to decide where you are going to get your cat. A cat from the shelter is far less expensive than a purebred cat, which can be as much as $1,000 or more. Adopting a cat is much more realistic, in my humble opinion. If you choose a cat from the shelter that is already altered, you are getting quite a bargain. With unaltered cats and dogs, the adopter must leave the shelter a $100 deposit that is refunded when proof of altering is presented to the shelter on top of the adoption fee, which is state of Maine law. Generally, male cats are cheaper to have altered than females, but the shots all cost the same.
Dogs are pretty much the same — an AKC-registered puppy will usually cost much more than a dog adopted from your local shelter, but if you are lucky, many times you can find registered dogs at the shelter or with rescue groups. Consider the coat of the dog; some dogs do require professional grooming or are more prone to certain medical problems than others. It is important to do your research before making any sort of decision.
There is a lot to consider: a cat will live well into its teen years; inside cats usually live longer than outside cats; and dogs usually live into their early teens. Usually the rule of thumb with dogs is the larger the dog, the shorter the life span, but it isn’t always the case. So, if a pet lives to 14 years old, that is 14 years of food, shots, treats, medical attention and miscellaneous expenses. Are you prepared to care for that animal through thick and thin for 14 years? And then, in the end, are you prepared to humanely put that beloved pet to sleep? There is a lot to think about; it is a life-or-death decision.
“A Dog’s Prayer”
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside… for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements… and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth… though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land… for you are my god… and I am your devoted worshiper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.
And, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest… and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
—Beth Norman Harris
Our pets ask so little from us but give us so many rewards, take the time to notice them.
If you are looking for a friend for life, visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. or give us a call at 764-3441.
Don’t forget, the Central Aroostook Humane Society will be in Caribou for the City Wide Yard Sale on May 21. We will be at 5 Franklin Street, so stop by and take a look at the goodies we have for sale. Raffle tickets are also being sold for $5 each on a Fishin’ Buddy fish finder, just in time for Father’s Day. Only 100 tickets are being sold, so don’t delay. Visit the shelter and buy yours today.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
