Tag: First Batch

How Do I Surrender My Cat?

You can surrender your cat by bring him to an open admissions shelter or rescue organization. If ensuring your cat ends up adopted into a loving home is important to you, there is another option that will help your cat be seen by millions of potential adopters.

Why Should I Think Twice About Surrendering My Cat To A Shelter or Rescue?  

Shelters can be very stressful environments for pets. When a cat is used to living in a home they know and are comfortable in, moving to a shelter or rescue with other pets and people they don’t know may be a big adjustment. It’s also possible that a shelter or rescue will have limited space, causing additional stress for your cat.

To give your cat the best possible chance you can at finding to a new home, it’s best to try to find them a home yourself. If your cat can stay in your home during the search for a new family, they will be less stressed and most likely have an easier adjustment to their new home.

How Do I Find A New Home For My Cat? 

Start with your friends and family. Does someone you already know want to adopt your cat? You never know unless you ask.

If your friends and family aren’t able to take your cat, you can make a profile on Rehome. Rehome is a free program that allows you to post your pet on Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of adopters to see.

Signing up for Rehome is easy and free. All you need to get started are photos of your cat, some basic health and behavior information, and a bio that describes your cat’s personality and temperament. Once you’ve entered all this information in your cat’s profile, you can post your cat and will soon begin to get applications from potential new families.  

Why Is My Dog Barking At The Wall?

Your dog may be barking at the wall because he hears animals or pests scurrying about or because he is experiencing cognitive dysfunction. The latter is more likely to occur when the dog is older. If he only focuses on one area of the wall, pests are more likely the cause while those with a medical problem typically stare and growl at various places on the wall.

So It’s Not Ghosts? 

The internet is fun. It’s given us dancing babies, social media, and information about how to tell if your dog barking at the wall is due to paranormal activity he’s sensing. The truth is that it’s much more likely that he hears mice or other animals or that he has a medical condition. Here’s what you need to do if you dog is barking at the wall:

Set Up An Appointment With The Vet

Anytime your pet exhibits strange behavior, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment just to rule out any medical concerns.

Call The Pest Control Company

If your pet is barking because some uninvited guests have taken up residence in your walls, the behavior will cease soon after they are removed. Call a humane pest control company that will safely relocate your visitors.

Another possible reason your dog may bark at the wall, especially if he’s never done it before, is because he senses an outside threat. Whatever the cause, it’s important not to ignore unusual behavior in your pet. Whether he’s trying to warn you, detects pests, or is suffering from a medical condition, it’s vital to address the underlying cause of barking at the wall. 

What Smells Deter Dogs?

Citrus and vinegar are examples of smells that deter dogs. When you’re looking for a way to keep your dog away from certain areas in and around your home, one effective method may be applying a scent that dogs don’t like. There are many things you can try, but it may take some trial and error to figure out which deterrents will be most effective with your pets.

Some Deterrents Are Dangerous 

When searching for ways to deter dogs, keep in mind that some suggested methods can be dangerous to pets. These include ammonia, some essential oils, and citronella. Since there is so much conflicting information online, it’s a good idea to check with your vet if you’re not sure if a particular item is safe.

Examples of safe deterrents include:

  • Citrus Peels: You might love the smell of a fresh orange or other citrus fruits, but your dog doesn’t. To try this simple, natural solution, simply pulse citrus peels in a food processor to release the oils and sprinkle them around the area of your yard you want to keep dog-free. You can also bury the peels under some mulch to keep them in place.
  • Vinegar Sprays: Fill a spray bottle with water and add two or three tablespoons of vinegar. You can also place vinegar-soaked cotton balls around the forbidden areas. If you don’t mind the smell, you can also use the vinegar-soaked cotton balls indoors. 

Another option is to purchase repellent sprays that are available at most retail pet stores. If the natural remedies and store-bought sprays don’t seem to work, seek advice from a reliable animal behaviorist who will be able to give you tips about curbing unwanted behaviors.

Whether you’re trying to keep dogs from stomping through your garden or from jumping on the furniture, with a little patience, you’ll find the solutions you need.   

Should You Feed A Stray Cat?

Before you feed a stray cat, you should check with your neighbors that the cat does not belong to them. Some cats are allowed to wander outside at their leisure and though they are fed, they will still beg for more. If the cat does not belong to your neighbors and does not seem scared of humans, the cat may be lost. You can feed the cats if you have the means to do so and it is legal in your area. You should also refer to our lost pet guide on the next steps.

Know The Laws In Your Area 

It is illegal to feed stray or feral cats (cats who have lived their entire life outdoors and do not tolerate human interaction) in some locations, so it’s important to know the laws in your area. It’s also important to know that many communities have groups of animal lovers advocating against such laws—and they have been successful in several places.

Talk With Members Of A Local TNR Group

If you notice a cat or multiple cats that are extremely scared of humans, it is likely a feral cat. Find a local group of feral cat advocates who will be happy to give you advice specific to your area. They will know if it is legal to feed these cats and whether or not it will be helpful for them. They’ll likely also encourage you to get the cat or cats TNR’d (trapped/neutered/released), which is another great kindness to these cats. 

Where Can I Surrender My Cat For Free?

There may be places where you can surrender your cat for free, but this depends on your location. In most areas, animal control charges a fee to accept surrendered animals, but some may not have a fee. Whether or not rescues charge anything varies by organization, but many do try to recoup a small portion of the cost of caring for the pet by charging a surrender fee. Rehoming your cat yourself is your best bet to avoid paying a rehoming fee. 

Rehoming Your Pet 

When you bring a pet into your home, it should be a lifelong commitment. Unfortunately, sometimes giving up a pet can’t be helped. Other times, the circumstances that make you want to surrender your pet could be resolved. For example, litter box issues may be a sign of an easily corrected medical issue. 

If you’ve exhausted all options and still feel that surrendering your cat is the right decision, consider rehoming him yourself. There are many reasons this is a good option including:

  • You don’t have to worry whether or not he’ll be put down at a shelter.
  • You’ll be able to choose the perfect home for your cat.
  • You won’t have to wait weeks or months for a rescue to have an open spot. 

While rehoming your cat yourself may take a little time, it’s worth it to know that you’re giving your pet the best possible chance of a happy life in a new home.

Not sure how to get started? Many resources are available to help you, and one of the best is the Rehome website. You’ll find expert advice, have the ability to create a custom profile for your pet, accept applications from potential adopters, and much more. 

If you can’t keep your pet, don’t surrender him—rehome him instead. 

How Long Does It Take an Australian Cattle Dog to Get Used to a New Home?

The amount of time that it takes for an Australian cattle dog to get used to a new home can vary based on a range of different factors. Australian cattle dogs are known to become attached to their owners, and they may have separation anxiety. As long as the dog feels safe and cared for, and they have owners who understand and accommodate their needs, they should start to acclimate within a week or so. However, it can sometimes take longer.

Understanding some of the factors that affect the adjustment period and taking steps to make the transition to a new home easier will help to speed up the process. Below, we will be looking at these factors and what you can do to make the dog feel safe and welcome.

The Age of the Dog 

The age of the dog could be a factor when determining how long it will take them to get used to a new home. Puppies and younger dogs tend to have an easier time adapting than older dogs in many cases. Older dogs might feel a bit skittish at first, but as long as they are treated well and their needs are met, they will adjust relatively quickly. With older dogs, it tends to be a good idea to continue calling them by the name their previous owner gave them. This is what they are accustomed to.

Making the Dog Feel Welcome and Part of the Family

Those who are adopting the dog should make sure that they learn as much as possible about the personality of the dog. Knowing the likes and dislikes of the dog when they come to the home for the first time helps to ensure they feel more at home. Make sure that they are on a good schedule for their walks, playtime, and bathroom time. Give them time to adjust and love and encouragement along the way.

Be Sure to Choose the Right Dog and the Right Home

If you are going to be adopting an Australian cattle dog, or if you are an owner who needs to put their dog up for adoption, considering using Rehome. This is a platform from Adopt-a-Pet that helps to make it easier to find the right homes for the dog. Owners who have pets they need to put up for adoption can add photos, videos, and information about their dog’s personality and temperament.

This information is highly valuable to those who are considering adoption. It can help them to determine whether they are getting the right Australian cattle dog for their home. The information also lets them create an environment that will be comfortable for the dog when it arrives.

Australian cattle dogs tend to be an energetic and loving breed. Some might adjust to their new life almost immediately. Others will be nervous, and it will take more time for them to become comfortable. Don’t pressure the dog. They will adjust in their own time and become a loving member of your family. 

What Is a Reasonable Rehoming Fee for a German Shepherd?

If you’re asking, “what is a reasonable rehoming fee for a German Shepherd,” you’re probably in a situation where you need to find your dog a new home and have decided to rehome him yourself. This is a responsible decision that will give your pet the best chance of finding a happy new home. Rehoming fees vary depending on how a dog is being rehomed, but can range from about $50 up to $350 or more for a purebred dog like a German Shepherd.

Why Should I Charge a Rehoming Fee? 

If you need to rehome your dog, you may be tempted to list him as “free to a good home,” but that’s never a good idea. Unfortunately, people search ads for free pets, pretend they want to adopt them, and then use them for dog fighting, or sell them to labs. In order to eliminate this danger, charge a rehoming fee of at least $50.

Another reason is that the fee is a bit of proof that the adopters will take proper care of your dog. If they balk at a rehoming fee, they may also hesitate when it comes to a vet bill or providing quality food and other care.

Is Help Available for the Rehoming Process? 

Many pet owners aren’t sure where to start when it comes to rehoming their pet. The good news is that help is available! Online resources like Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com provide expert advice and tools, such as the ability to create a pet profile and connect with potential adopters. These tools and easy to follow guidelines make it easier to find the perfect home for your German Shepherd.

Charging a reasonable rehoming fee is an important part of the rehoming process, and it is one way to ensure you find your German Shepherd a home where he will be safe and loved. 

Does PetSmart Take Cats?

PetSmart does not take cats, though you are allowed to bring your cat into the store if you are shopping. If you attempt to surrender a cat at a PetSmart location, you will be turned away and given other options.

What About All the Cats I See For Adoption In Store?

The adoptable cats you see in some PetSmart locations are available through a specific organization that has a partnership with PetSmart. These cats are brought in daily so that they can gain more exposure and hopefully more potential to be adopted. Each of these cats undergoes a health and behavior evaluation with the organization they are available through to make sure that they are good with other cats and ready to be adopted to a new home. Adding a new cat to the mix can potentially cause extra stress for the cats and therefore, the cat you would like to surrender would not be allowed to stay with these cats.

What Options Do I Have For a Cat I Can’t Keep?  

There are some great options to help you find a new home for a cat you can’t keep. It’s best to try to find the cat a new family to live with rather than bringing them to a shelter. Shelters can be very stressful for any animal, so finding a new home for your cat yourself will help make the transition easier on him. Here are the steps you can take to find your cat a new, loving home:

Start With Friends and Family  

Talk to the people that you are closest with and see if they can adopt your cat. You can post pictures and a description of your cat on your social media channels to cast a wider net as well. If your cat can live with someone you already know, it will give you peace of mind and allow you to remain in contact with the owner.

Create An Account On Rehome  

If your friends and family are unable to help give your cat a new home, you can turn to another online resource called Rehome. This no-cost program is easy to use and gets your pet posted on Adopt-a-Pet.com. Once your pet is posted, millions of potential adopters will be able to view him, giving you the best chance of finding a great new family!  

All you need to get started is a clear, bright photo or two of your cat and some basic information about their behavior and medical history. Then you’ll be able to create your account and craft a bio about your cat to give potential adopters more details.  

What is the Fastest Way to Rehome a Beagle?

The fastest way to rehome a beagle is to take them to a shelter. However, this is not typically the best way to rehome your pet. There are alternatives that you can try, which will often be a better solution. Animal shelters do their best to take care of the pets that are under their care, but they may not have space or the resources available. This means that sometimes, they need to euthanize the pets that are at their facility. Not all of the pets will be adopted from a shelter.

If you need to rehome your beagle, you’ll want to think about some of the other available options.

How Can You Rehome Your Beagle?

The act of giving up your dog is always difficult. In a perfect world, you would not need to give up your furry friend. However, there are many potential reasons that you might not be able to keep your pet any longer.

One of the first things you should do is think about why you need to give up your dog. Is she barking all day and bothering the neighbors? Is she tearing up the house while you’re away? Are you unable to spend as much time with your pet as you would like? Often, there are means to rectify behavior situations. You could hire pet sitters or take her to doggy daycare, as well. In some cases, a little rehome_research will allow you to find ways that you can keep your dog with you.

Of course, there are also times when keeping your beagle is just not possible for one reason or another. In those cases, one of the first things you should consider is rehoming with someone you know. Maybe you have a family member or a friend who mentioned wanting to get a dog, and who already loves your beagle. Ask them if they would like to adopt her. This way, you’ll know that she’s going to a good home where she will be loved and cared for.

If you don’t know anyone, you could check local rescues. Rescues will keep your dog indefinitely, but there is no guarantee that she will be adopted. Rescues are often full, as well, which means they won’t have room for your dog.

You may also want to choose to use the Rehome platform from Adopt-a-Pet.com. This is a peer-to-peer site that makes it easier to find people who are looking to adopt a beagle just like yours. You can add a bio for your dog, as well as pictures and videos. You can review the applications from potential adopters and then choose the home that you feel is the best.

When you rehome your beagle like this, it provides you with a better overall feeling about the process of rehoming. It is not as fast as bringing your beagle to the shelter, but you can be sure she’s going to have a great life going forward.

Can an Apartment Complex Deny an Emotional Support Animal?

An apartment complex cannot deny an emotional support animal (ESA) that provides support directly relating to a mental or emotional disability of the owner. While emotional support animals are not afforded the same widespread protections as service dogs, housing is an area in which there is legal protections in place. Even if a complex has a no-pet policy, a waiver must be granted in most cases once documentation is provided.

Providing Documentation 

Getting the needed document is pretty straightforward. You’ll just need a letter from a licensed therapist or other mental health professional. If the landlord still refuses, you can file a discrimination complaint with HUD or get a lawyer involved.

Some landlords think they are not required to provide accommodations for an ESA in the same way they are for a service dog, so sometimes it only takes educating them on the laws to get them to comply.

Note that while the landlord should not charge you a pet deposit, you will be responsible for any damage caused by the ESA.

Service Animal vs. ESA 

It’s also important for those with an ESA or those planning to get one to understand that protections for an ESA only pertain to housing and air travel. Unlike a service dog, an ESA may not be welcome in restaurants and other rehome_legacy places while a service dog must be allowed anywhere open to the rehome_legacy.

Exceptions to the Rule 

Most rental properties must allow your emotional support animal, but there are some exceptions:

  • Single-family homes rented without the help of a broker
  • Buildings with four or fewer units and in which the landlord occupies one 

The laws change from time to time, so it’s important to know your rights before you begin your search for the perfect rental.