CHECK PET RESCUE GROUPS
Pet rescue groups perform a great service - but it’s wise to make sure they are reputable before you adopt.
Some organizations are a little too eager to give away pets and so they skimp on temperament evaluation, health issues and/or sterilization.
A good organization takes time to match each applicant with the appropriate pet.
It’s always best to first inquire of people who have adopted pets from the group about their experiences, and also ask shelters in the area.
Other ways you can protect against having a bad experience:
Visit and inspect a facility the group maintains;
Talk to the organization’s veterinarian;
Make sure the animal is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccines and has been spayed or neutered;
Review the group’s policies on fostering, adoption and veterinary care. The top-of-the-line organizations will have written policies, often in the form of a contract.
Another pet-related issue of interest: there’s a drug for obese dogs. Dirlotapide, sold as Slentrol, reduces the amount of fat a dog can absorb and triggers feelings of fullness.
Of course, there’s a warning of possible side effects: diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite.
Maybe it’s best to let Fido waddle a bit!
Though a dog is considered obese if it weighs at least 20 percent more than its ideal weight, it’s advisable to let your vet determine whether your dog is a candidate for dirlotapide.