Livingston SPCA Gives Adopters and Owners Cause to Pause

At a recent PetSmart Millerville tent event, the SPCA of Livingston adopted 52 animals over the weekend. That number is certainly impressive; but, it’s not the only thing the group achieved. Hundreds of people who browsed the event received an education in responsible pet ownership. Large, eye-catching cards attached to each adoptable pet’s kennel read:
I am NOT an until-you-get-a-new-boyfriend/girlfriend dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-your-first-child dog.
I am NOT an until-I-am-no-longer-a-puppy dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-to-move dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-no-time dog.
I am NOT an until-I get-old-or-sick dog.
I am a FOREVER dog. It’s just that simple.
If you can’t give me FOREVER, then I am NOT YOUR DOG.

The verbiage is roughly based on a piece attributed to the Calgary Humane Society. But, “It’s a sentiment we all feel when the adopters we counseled return [an animal],” says Terri Cato Dunlap, the non-profit’s president. “[Rescued pets] are not like shoes or a purse [that you can buy one day and return the next]. They are supposed to be forever. ”

It’s also one in series of message cards designed to make the public think. When Livingston SPCA debuted the card three years ago, the message provoked somewhat of a hostile reception. So, these particular cards were shelved until January 2013. Now, they seem to garner a lot of attention and a lot of tacit acknowledgment that the only reason to adopt an animal is for lifelong companionship.

“Our message is: Don’t adopt a cat or dog just because it’s cute or fun, then return [the animal] later,” Dunlap says. “And, if you want to get a warm fuzzy feeling of helping the rescue, you don’t have to taken an animal home. There’s always the donation jar.”

While the card is targeted toward potential adopters, it gives all pet owners pause to reflect on their relationship and commitment to their pets.

	Rondo is one of four kittens lucky enough to be discovered by the neighbor of an SPCA foster. Consequently, he never set paw inside a shelter, which allowed him to remain healthy and strong. Rondo means cheerful music, which fits this little guy perfectly. The tiny tiger is always ready to play, give purring kisses, then snuggle up to watch some TV.
	Allie is a seven-month-old female beagle/basset hound mix. Her foster mom says she is a really sweet girl who loves to cuddle.
	Clara and her sister were rescued by their foster after escaping from a pack of dogs. At five months old, this pretty tabby is shy at first. But, once a new acquaintance gains her trust, she becomes a terrific companion, who loves to curl up and watch movies until she falls asleep.
	Ralphy is an eight-month-old male wirehaired terrier/ beagle mix. He is a sweet guy who gets along wonderfully with people. He is best suited to being an only dog because sometimes other dogs scare him and he reacts aggressively. However, if you are looking for a loving guy to be your best friend, then he’s your boy.
	Ace is a five-month-old longhaired tuxedo. The shy guy of his litter, this beautiful boy is slowly learning to his foster family. A forever home is sure to encourage his sweet personality to blossom.
	Tinkerbell is an Irish wolfhound/terrier mix. At approximately 14 weeks, she is still working on house breaking. But, she already is kennel trained, responds to the “sit” command and loves treats. Tinkerbell enjoys playing with kids and other dogs. She hasn’t been around cats yet. Tinkerbell has a great disposition and loves to give kisses to everyone.