MILTON — Does your New Year’s resolution include rescuing a cat or dog?
If so, then Santa Rosa County Animal Services director Dale Hamilton has some advice.
The Animal Services department, located at 4451 Pine Forest Road in Milton, has 14 dogs and a few cats up for adoption. However, prospective pet parents should first consider the cost and commitment of owning an animal. That includes veterinary and pet food costs.
Puppies usually require several vaccinations in their first year to fight canine parvovirus infection, among others, Hamilton said. Cats and dogs annually require a rabies vaccination.
While rabies vaccinations are available to purchase at certain retailers, Hamilton suggests having the vaccination administered by a local licensed veterinarian.
“While you can do (the vaccination) on your own, it is not recognized by the state; it’s got to be done the right way,” he said.
Having rabies shots administered by a local licensed veterinarian also helps the animal services department verify whether an animal has been vaccinated. In case your pet bites someone, the pet must be checked for rabies. With an annual rabies shot, most veterinary clinics provide the owner with a tag and documentation stating their animal is vaccinated.
Hamilton also suggests researching the preferred pet’s breed before adopting. Some breeds may be too hyperactive for a pet owner who prefers a breed with a lot less energy.
Also, consider the pet’s environment. Whether it’s a fenced area for a dog or keeping a cat inside at all times, Hamilton suggests ensuring you have enough space for the animal.
If you’re considering a second or third pet, Hamilton suggests bringing the pet to meet his or her potential pet mate before adopting.
“Let them kind of meet the one they are thinking about adopting and make sure they are going to get along,” he said.
In addition, use a pet computer chip rather than a tag, Hamilton said.
“Those tags are going to get lost; that is just the way it goes,” he said.
If you get the pet chipped, Hamilton also said it is important to update the information in case the pet is relocated with a new owner.
SRC Animal Services features available animals on its website, http://bit.ly/2hhBprU, and the department uses the county’s Twitter account to promote the same animals. The department also occasionally presents animals at community events.
Residents may visit the department 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays for adoptions. Call 983-4680 for more information.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Want to adopt a pet? Consider these tips