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How Do I Give Up My Border Collie?

There are several ways that you can give up your border collie if you find that you can no longer keep her. No one likes the idea of needing to get rid of a dog they love and have cared for, but it happens. You might have a new family member coming into the house who is scared of dogs or allergic, for example. Maybe you have to move for work, and you’re going to a new home that doesn’t allow pets.

There is any number of reasons that you might have to give up your border collie. Naturally, you want to be sure that your dog goes to a good home. Below, you’ll find options that you can try.

Should You Consider Shelters and Rescues?

Many people will first think about the possibility of taking their dog to a shelter or a rescue. Shelters will require a surrender fee, and they’ll require that you make an appointment before you drop off your dog. The same is true with rescues. Additionally, not all of the dogs brought to these organizations will be adopted. Despite shelters trying their best, they do not have the resources or the space to keep all of the dogs indefinitely.

Why Rehoming is a Better Option

When you rehome your border collie, you’ll be sure that your beloved dog is going to a home where she will be loved. You could choose to have a family member, or a friend take her, or you could find someone online. If you’re giving up your border collie to a stranger, make sure that you rehome_research them first, and charge a rehoming fee. The rehoming fee helps to ensure that they have a financial stake in your dog and will not be adopting her for any ill intent.

To make things as easy as possible, consider using Rehome. This is a peer-to-peer platform that allows you to connect with people looking to adopt. You can check their application to ensure they will be a good fit for your dog.

What If You Can Keep Your Dog?

While there may be some cases where you have no choice except to give up your border collie, you should strive to ensure that this is your last choice. Take the time to think about why you have to give up your dog and see if there might be a solution.

If you don’t have time to walk your dog each day, or if you have been injured and can’t take care of the dog right now, look for a pet sitter or dog walker, for example. For those who have border collies with behavioral problems, consider getting a trainer or taking her to a training class. This can often alleviate the issue.

Maybe there is a way that you can keep your dog. Of course, we know that this is not always possible. If you can’t keep your dog, consider rehoming rather than shelters.

Can I Drop My Australian Shepherd Off at an Animal Shelter?

In most cases, you can’t simply drop your Australian Shepherd off at an animal shelter. They don’t take walk-ins. Instead, you will need to find a shelter in your area and then call them to set up an appointment. When you call and let them know that you want to surrender your dog, they’ll typically ask you several questions before setting up the appointment.

Today, most shelters understand that the best course of action is to get the owners to keep their pets. They try to work with the owners who may want to give up their animals to find alternatives. For example, they can suggest training programs, doggy daycare, and even financial resources that can help with many issues owners are experiencing. This helps pets to stay in the home, and it reduces the number of animals crowding the shelters.

Of course, it’s not always possible to keep your dog. In those cases, the shelter will set up an appointment for you to drop her off and fill out the paperwork. You need to realize that once you surrender your Australian Shepherd to the shelter, you are giving up your legal rights to your pet.

Is a Shelter the Right Choice?

Shelters try hard to do a good job taking care of the animals that come into their care. Yet, it’s not always possible. Often, the shelters are crowded, and dogs don’t have enough space. To make more room, shelters will have to euthanize some of the animals. Typically those that have been there over a certain amount of time are first on the list. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a reality you have to consider. Fortunately, there are other options to try first. The shelter should always be a last resort.

Other Options to Consider

You might want to try a local rescue instead of a shelter. Rescues will keep the animals until someone adopts them, which can give you some peace of mind. However, there is no guarantee that someone will adopt your Australian Shepherd. Additionally, rescues are often at capacity and will not have room to take on more animals.

Rather than a shelter or a rescue, you may want to consider seeing if someone in your group of friends or your family might be interested in adopting your dog. This is a good option because it means you may still be able to see her occasionally, and she may already know the people in their new home.

Another option that could work well is to rehome your dog using Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com. This platform lets owners post information about their pets in a profile, which can then be viewed by people looking to adopt. When people are interested in adopting your Australian Shepherd, they will fill out an adoption application, which you can review. This will make it easier for you to find the ideal person or family to adopt your dog. It’s safe and easy to use.

How Do You Get an ESA Letter for Housing?

To get an emotional support animal (ESA) letter for housing, you must ask your licensed therapist or other medical professional to write one for you.

Why You Need An ESA Letter 

While emotional support animals do not enjoy the same broad protections as service animals, there are two areas in which they are protected: housing and airline travel. Having a letter ensures that you’ll be able to meet the requirements to have no-pet policies waived and to find rental housing and bring your ESA on a plane with you.

Some landlords may not require the letter, but it’s better to have it just in case. For airline travel, all airlines require an ESA letter and some may even ask for vaccination records and other paperwork.

If a landlord refuses to rent to you once you’ve shown him your ESA letter, he is in violation of the law and you can file a complaint with HUD. Most rentals are included, but there are a couple of exceptions:

  • Single family homes rented out without the help of a realtor.
  • Buildings with four units or less in which the landlord lives in one. 

It is also of note that the landlord is not allowed to charge you a pet fee for your ESA even if other tenants are required to pay a pet deposit. You can, however, be charged for any damage caused by your ESA.

It shouldn’t be difficult to find a rental just because you have an emotional support animal, and the law is on your side. Know your rights, secure your letter, and you should have no problem finding the perfect rental. 

What Does It Mean to Surrender a Jack Russell Terrier?

When you surrender a Jack Russell Terrier, it means that you’re giving up your rights to your dog. To surrender your dog, you’ll take him to a shelter or a rescue. However, you need to be sure that you’re following the guidelines of the facility. You’ll also want to know the difference between shelters and rescues, along with other options for giving up your dog.

Contact the Facility

Before you can bring your dog to a shelter or a rescue, you need to get in touch with the facility. They all have their own regulations and rules when it comes to surrendering dogs. Check their website and then call them to learn exactly what you need to do to surrender your dog. They’ll let you know what the surrender fees will be, as well as what paperwork you’ll need to have and fill out when you surrender your dog.

They’ll also want to know why you need to give up your dog. In some cases, they may have some resources to provide you that will allow you to keep your dog. For example, if you spend a lot of time at work and you can’t walk your dog each day, they might suggest that you use a pet sitter or dog walker. They want to give you every opportunity possible to keep your dog.

If you aren’t able to keep your, dog, you can set up an appointment to surrender him to the shelter or rescue. Once you do, you’ll no longer have legal rights to him.

Why Are There Surrender Fees and Adoption Fees?

When you drop off your dog at the facility, they’ll charge a surrender fee, as mentioned. However, when someone adopts a dog through the facility, they’ll have to pay an adoption fee. Fees are charged for incoming and outgoing dogs to help ensure that the organization has enough money to continue operating. The adoption fees, similar to rehoming fees, ensure that there’s enough. 

What About Rehoming?

You don’t have to surrender your dog to a shelter or a rescue when you have to give him up. You also have the option of rehoming, which could be a better solution for your dog. One of the first methods of rehoming is to find someone you already know that might be willing to adopt your dog. You could have a family member that’s been thinking about adopting, for example.

You can also rehome your dog with people that you find online. Using a platform like Rehome is a great option. It’s part of Adopt-a-Pet.com, and it allows you to create a profile, complete with images and videos, for your dog. The profile lets you detail your dog’s traits and personality, along with things that he might not like or issues he has. Being honest in the profile will help to ensure that your dog has the best chance possible of finding a perfect new home.

Why Is My Cat Scratching Furniture?

Cats scratch furniture because it’s often at a height that allows them to stretch and because they find the rough fabric ideal. Scratching is a necessity for cats, so you can’t stop the behavior altogether. What you can do is try to redirect their scratching to appropriate objects, such as scratching posts. In the meantime, try adding corner guards and other barriers to protect your furniture.

Tips For Redirecting Your Cat’s Scratching 

While cats may not be as easy to train as dogs, it is possible to get a cat to scratch where you want. Here are some tips:

Scratching Posts 

You’ve probably seen those kitty condos covered in carpet. While those are a spot from which your cat can survey her kingdom or take a nap, the material is not ideal for scratching. Instead, choose scratching posts with a rough material, such as burlap or sisal. At least one of the posts should be three feet tall to allow your cat to fully stretch while scratching.

Where you place the scratching posts is just as important as the types of scratching posts you choose. Place a post near where your cat is already scratching (close to your furniture for example) and another near where he sleeps. If there are spots your cat frequents, you can place them there as well.

Introducing the Scratching Posts 

Show your cat the posts and make scratching noises on them. If you have a kitten, gently take his paws and make scratching motions with them. For older cats, sprinkle catnip to spark interest. Also, put some of your pets favorite toys near the post and spend time playing with them nearby.

Protect Your Furniture with Nail Caps 

Nail caps are in inexpensive vinyl product that is placed over cats’ claws which prevents damage from scratching. Some brave cat owners apply the caps themselves, but it’s much easier to have the vet do it. Once applied, they will last about four to six weeks.

It might take a while for your cat to use to the new scratching posts, especially if he’s gotten use to scratching your furniture. Every time you see him scratching your furniture, simply redirect him to the post. When you see him using the post, praise him. Over time, he’ll lose interest in the furniture. 

How Do I Know If My Dog Swallowed Something?

Signs that your dog swallowed something include vomiting after eating, bloated stomach, and refusing food. Some blockages are an emergency, but you should always visit your vet if you suspect your dog has swallowed a foreign object and they are displaying symptoms or acting abnormally. A bloated stomach in particular needs immediate attention, but any blockage caused by swallowing a foreign object could be life threatening.

Waiting For The Object To Pass Could Be Deadly 

It’s true that in some cases the object will pass safely, but you’re taking a big chance by waiting instead of visiting your vet. Sharp objects can pierce the bowel, toxic items can cause poison to spread, and string can become tangled around the intestine.

Another potential side effect is that a blockage can restrict blood flow and cause bowel tissue to die. This condition, called peritonitis, is often fatal.

Instead of taking chances, let a vet assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. The vet may be able to remove the object with an endoscope. In some cases, surgery may be required to safely remove the item.

Prevention Is The Best Medicine

Some dogs are cautious about what they eat while others just wolf down anything and everything: gravel, socks, pennies, etc…

It’s impossible to watch your dog 24/7, but you can help to prevent issues by keeping the areas he frequents free from objects he may swallow. Do a quick check of the yard every morning, and make sure trash, clothing, and other items in the home aren’t easily accessible.

When it comes to dog toys, choose tough toys that aren’t easily torn into many pieces. Also, supervise play time and once a toy it damaged, throw it away.

If you suspect your dog has swallowed something, get to the vet as soon as possible. The sooner treatment is given after your dog swallows a foreign object, the better his chances for a full recovery. 

Does Animal Control Pick Up Cats?

In most locations, animal control will pick up stray cats. Whether or not they accept owner surrenders varies by location. If you’re considering giving up your pet to animal control, it should be with the understanding that they may be put down. If you’re calling about stray or feral cats, that fact should be a consideration as well.

Pet Cats 

If you need to rehome a pet cat, animal control should be a last resort. While most facilities do their best for the animals in their care, many still euthanize healthy animals because they simply do not have the space to care for them. If you can’t keep your cat, he deserves a chance at a happy life with another family.

Instead of surrendering him to animal control, consider finding him a new home yourself. The Rehome website can help you do this. You’ll find lots of expert advice and tools that simplify the process of finding your cat a loving new home.    

Stray Cats 

A stray cat is one that lived with humans at one point, but is now either lost or abandoned. You can tell if a cat is a stray because he will allow you to approach him, may meow or purr, and might beg for food. Depending on where you live, it is required that stray cats are reported to animal control. Even if it is not a requirement, it may still be a good idea to let them know, as many pet owners who lost their cat turn to animal control first.

If you are willing, let animal control know that you are able to care for the cat should no owner come forward. That way, you can ensure the cat winds up in a safe situation.

Feral Cats

Feral cats are cats that were born outside and are not socialized. This means they will usually not make good house pets. Some people find feral cats to be a nuisance and call animal control about them. If they are picked up, they are almost always put down immediately as they are not considered adoptable.  

As a humane alternative, consider these options instead:

  • Get in touch with a local TNR group (trap, neuter, release) to see about having the cats fixed. This prevents the population from growing while allowing them to live out their lives.
  • Research humane methods of deterring cats from coming on to your property. Ask the TNR group about this too, as they will likely have lots of advice. 

While animal control may pick up cats depending on your situation and location, it may not be the safest solution for the animals. Whether you need help rehoming a pet or assistance with feral cats, help is out there in a way that is safe for the cats.  

Does Ammonia Keep Dogs Away?

Ammonia is an effective way to keep dogs away, but it should be avoided as it can also be harmful to pets. Dogs’ sensitive noses are irritated by ammonia, which is why it’s an effective repellent—but it’s not just irritating. If consumed, it can cause damage to the throat and stomach.

Safer Alternatives For A Dog Repellent 

Would you like to keep your dog away from your garden, stop him from going to the bathroom near your car, or keep him off the new sofa? Avoid potentially harmful ammonia in favor of safer alternatives including:

  • Vinegar: A simple spray made from a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water is often effective in keeping dogs from digging or frequenting certain areas of the yard.
  • Citrus Peels: Citrus peels are another effective deterrent for use outdoors. For the best results, pulse the peels in a food processor or slice them in order to release the oils. 

What If Nothing Seems to Work?

Some dogs are more persistent than others when it comes to getting what they want. If none of the repellents you try are doing the trick, you may have to install a gated fence around your garden or install a dog run in the section of the yard you want him to play in. Also, your dog may respond to additional training to teach him to respond to commands like, “No!” and “Leave it!”

Whether your dog is a puppy just starting to figure things out or you’re dealing with an old dog who doesn’t want to give up his old tricks, with some patience and trial and error, you’ll find an effective way to keep your dog away from forbidden areas. 

How Do I Get My Cats To Like Each Other?

In order to get your cats to like each other, start with a proper introduction. This includes four steps outlined below. After that, or if the cats have already been introduced, there are some tips you can try to help them get along. It might take some time, but if you’re patient and persistent, your cats can most likely learn to be friends.

Four Steps To A Proper Introduction

Isolation

Place the new cat in a room with everything they need including a litter box, food, water, and toys. Feed your other cat on the other side of the door. Over a few days, move the food bowls closer to each side of the door until they are right up against it.

Sight/Scent

This step involves sub-steps. You shouldn’t move on to the next step until the cats seem okay with the current step.

  • Swap out the blankets between cats, so they will get used to each other’s scents.
  • Prop the door open just enough for the cats to see each other.
  • Put one cat in a carrier and place it in a room with the other cat.
  • Confine the old cat in the isolation room and let the new cat explore the house.

Initial Meeting

Allow your cat to enter the isolation room with the new cat. Be there to observe, and be prepared to intervene in case a catfight breaks out. Offer treats and have lots of toys on hand. If either cat becomes aggressive, it’s time to stop for the day. Don’t worry, you can try again tomorrow! After about ten minutes, wrap up this first meeting.

Increase Time Together

If things are going well, slowly increase the amount of time the cats spend together by adding 5 or so minutes each time. If at any point the cats fight, separate them and then give it a day or two before trying another meeting. 

After The Introductions Have Been Made

Whether you just introduced a new cat or you’re trying to get two cats you’ve had for a while to get along, here are some tips that might help:

  • Cats Like Their Own Spaces And Their Own Stuff: Try having two of everything including food and water bowls, litter boxes (one per cat plus one additional box), beds, etc… If they have their own, they won’t have to fight over them. Also, don’t force them to be in the same space. Let them come and go and be sure that each has a favorite comfy spot where they can steal away for a catnap.
  • Ease Congestion: Are there spaces in your home where your cats tend to bump into each other and get into a tiff? If so, add kitty walkways or tubes along the walls to avoid that situation.
  • Lots Of Playtime: Spend time playing with your cats to burn off energy and relieve stress. Playtime should be separate until they are getting along and then you can play with both cats together.
    Some cats take months—or even longer—to warm up to each other, so be patient. Even if they’ll never be best friends, most cats will at least learn to tolerate each other. 

Do Cats Learn If You Punish Them?

Punishing cats will often lead to more behavior issues and may make your cat fearful of you. It is not recommended. When your cat displays behaviors you don’t like, your first thought shouldn’t be punishing him. Instead, try to determine why your cat is engaging in the inappropriate behavior and take steps to correct it. For example, if the cat is scratching your furniture, provide several scratching posts throughout the house. Also, yelling or hitting are never acceptable punishments for cats and will never yield the desired results.

Tips for Changing Your Cats Behavior

Often, changing undesired behavior in your cat is as easy as changing the environment. Here are a few examples: 

  • Scratching Furniture: Cats have to scratch. If they are scratching your furniture or walls, yelling at them to stop will be completely ineffective as it’s a thing they need to do. Instead of looking for ways to punish the cat, simply provide them with scratching posts. Place a post in all areas of the home where the cat spends time. When you observe him scratching furniture, redirect him to a nearby scratching post.
  • Urinating Outside the Litter Box: Many cats will not go in a dirty litter box, and many cats don’t like to share. Some issues with urinating outside the box are as easy to solve as adding more litter boxes—as a general rule, you should have one litter box per cat plus one additional box—and keeping them clean by scooping at least once a day. Note: If a cat that has always gone in the box is suddenly urinating in inappropriate places, it could be due to a medical condition. Schedule a visit to your vet to rule out a urinary tract infection and other issues.
  • Rough Play/Biting: When your cat plays rough or bites, you may be tempted to swat him on the nose or otherwise show him who is boss. This can lead to a fearful cat or a cat who feels like he needs to fight harder to protect himself. Instead, realize that your cat is very likely just playing. When he gets too rough, immediately stop playing and walk away. Also, provide toys that are appropriate for pouncing and “hunting,” so your cat will have a way to participate in these normal cat behaviors.

Yelling, hitting, and other physical punishments are not likely to make the undesired behaviors stop and will result in a fearful cat that doesn’t trust you. If you’re at the end of your rope, contact an animal behaviorist for advice tailored to your situation.