Be a Good Human Companion

Being a good caregiver for your animal takes time, understanding and care. More than anything else, your animal wants affection. They may act like food is their “best friend,” but nothing beats a loving touch and gentle voice.

You can lengthen the life of your companion animal and improve his or her quality of life:

Have your companion spayed or neutered.

This will be the best decision you make. Altering your animal reduces or eliminates several health risks and your animal’s desire to fight and roam (decreasing chances of auto accidents). Neutered cats are less likely to develop “spraying” behavior. Only positive behavior changes can come from having your pet fixed. Make an appointment at our Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic today by calling 650-340-7015.

License and Microchip

Make sure your animal is wearing identification. It may save his or her life. Consider this startling fact: 99 out of 100 lost cats wear no identification. Of the cats we receive, we are only able to reunite them with their owners 5% of the time, compared to 50% for dogs. The reason: owners are much more likely to ID their dog than they are their cat. On “Microchip Mondays,” we offer a deal on already discounted microchip implant rates. No appointment necessary.

Go to Class

Most dogs “surrendered” or turned in to PHS/SPCA by their owners have received no obedience training. Obedience training classes are inexpensive and will make you and your dog happier.

Provide Exercise

Dogs and cats need plenty of opportunities for exercise. If you have a cat, keep many toys and scratching posts around. All dogs — not just big sporting breeds — need to run. When left alone, even in a situation with more than one dog together, dogs will not exercise themselves.

Socialization is Essential

Make sure your dog or cat is a part of the family and not simply left outside all day and brought in at night. Dogs and cats, like humans, need more than food, water and shelter.

Finally, if your companion animal becomes lost, immediately check all local animal shelters on a daily basis. Don’t wait and think, “Oh, he’s done this before. He’ll be back in a day or two.” Sometimes waiting that extra day could cost your animal’s life.