As animal adoption awareness rises, many pet owners are making room to add another pet to their home. Cat Depot, a no-kill cat adoption center in Florida, provides tips for those welcoming a feline into a house already occupied by a dog.
Sarasota, Florida, (PRBuzz.com) August 24, 2012 -- The distinction between "dog people" and "cat people" has been a longstanding divide among pet owners, however, that does not mean that these animals cannot live in the same space peaceably. In fact, as many Americans become more aware of animal adoption needs, Cat Depot--a non-profit cat adoption center--recognizes that those who choose to adopt a new animal may already have a pet of another species at home. While the organization encourages adoption, it also cautions pet owners to make sure that the transition is smooth, to ensure that both a cat and a dog can live harmoniously.
A recent article from Times Record News highlights the common problems that can occur between dogs and cats when placed together in a new environment. While one pet may already have domain over the household, the new animal may have trouble making their presence felt. In a recent press statement, Cat Depot suggests, "Owners need to take responsibility and move slowly during the safe introduction process to increase their chances for success. You must not throw your pets together in a sink-or-swim situation and hope they will work it out."
According to the article, the best thing to do is to take time and let each pet claim its own space. It states, "Have a dog-free area for your cat and a cat-free area for your dog. This way, each has a quiet place to go if they get stressed. Another suggestion is to place the new animal in a small room such as a bathroom or spare room and let the animals get used to the smell of each other over several days. Once that seems to be accepted, let the animals see each other."
While efforts can be made to accommodate both cats and dogs in the same environment, Cat Depot recommends that individuals who already have a dog seek a cat that is already friendly with canines. Cat Depot has helped new cat owners with this process by using a "test dog." One representative from the non-profit explains, "At Cat Depot, we have a special dog on staff who is our 'cat tester.' The dog interacts with the cats and kittens to insure they are dog friendly prior to adoption. All adopters leave with a book in their adoption bag that gives special tips on introducing a new pet."
ABOUT:
Cat Depot is a 501c(3) non-profit, no-kill facility in Sarasota, Florida that aims to improve the lives of homeless cats by providing essential needs and finding loving pet owners for them to go home to. The persistence of the organization's volunteers has resulted in the rescue of countless animals that would have otherwise been subjected to less desirable fates. In addition, Cat Depot works diligently to educate the public on the need to rescue animals and provides programs that teach the public about proper care and handling to prevent the need for future rescue.
To learn more, visit www.catdepot.org.
Michael McGarety
PR Authority
800-475-2390
media@prauthority.com
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