Reader\'s Digest Australia - 06.2019

(National Geographic (Little) Kids) #1
PETS

16 | June• 2019


Common Pet Blunders


BY DR KATRINA WARREN

owners make but are easy to avoid


MOST PET OWNERS DO THEIR BESTto provide
excellent care for their four-legged friends. But even the
most well intentioned of owners can make mistakes.
Veterinarian Dr Katrina Warren shares her advice about
some of the mistakes pet owners can make and aspects
to be careful about.

1 BUYING A PET ONLINE
Buying a pet online is risky because you will have
absolutely no idea about the conditions that the pet was
raised in or the health of the pet. You should aim to see
the puppy or kitten in the place it was born, preferably
while they are still with their mother. Ensure the premises
are clean and the puppies or kittens are friendly and well
cared for. Consider adopting a pet from a welfare shelter
as an alternative. You should always be prepared to wait
and travel to find the right pet.

2 CHOOSING THE WRONG PET FOR
YOUR L IFESTYLE
You should never choose a dog or cat based on
appearance or because you saw that breed in a
movie. Be realistic about how much time and space
you have, how much exercise you can provide, the
amount of money you’re prepared to spend on care
and grooming, and how much time the pet will be
alone each day. The energ y level of the pet is important


  • some owners want a dog to take out jogging, while


Our regular pet
columnist,
Dr Katrina
Warren, is an
established and
trusted animal
expert.


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