Dear Heloise: I want to share a wonderful story with you. I always wanted a pug dog, but they are very expensive, and since I am living on a fixed income, buying a pug would be out of the question.
I found an organization on the Web that rescues pugs and was able to obtain an application for adoption. After a long wait, I became the proud adoptive father to Gizmo, an 8-year-old female pug. She has made such an impact on my life!
Before, I spent most of my time depressed and in bed. Now that I have her, even with the pain as bad as it is (resulting in short walks), I still get out of bed, and when I do lie down, she is right by my side.
She only requests food, love, walks and lots of belly rubs! I can't tell you what she's done for me, and I'm sure there are a lot of other people out there wishing they could afford to buy a purebred pet. There are other options — look for Internet sites for rescue organizations. — Paul, New Jersey
Adopting a pet, especially through a rescue group, is a wonderful way to bring one into your life. Mutts and mixed breeds make delightful pets, too. Ask your veterinarian for information about local animal-rescue organizations — there are lots of them!
We adopted our beloved Black Jack, a black Lab mix, from a shelter more than 10 years ago. He recently went to doggy heaven. He was a special addition to our family, and we will miss his smile! — Heloise
Dear Readers: Smokie Kitty, a black cat, belongs to Carolyn Walker of Navarre, Ohio. She enjoys watching her favorite video on television and seems to be saying: "WOW! This is much better than soaps or football."
Send you favorite Pet Photo to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or look for Smokie on my Web page www.Heloise.com. Just click on This Week's Pet. — Heloise
Dear Heloise: If you get a new puppy or kitten and keep it in the bedroom with you at night, keep a flashlight close by on your night stand.
When the little one cries or fusses, just point the flashlight in his/her direction. You can see what the problem is without turning on the bedroom light and disturbing your spouse. — Kelly from Texas
Dear Heloise: Not only should emergency contact information include family information but also information about pets at home that might need care if you are in the hospital, etc.
Ideally, you should have a friend, family member, pet sitter or neighbor with access to your home who can care for your pets while you are unexpectedly gone.
Also, leave a note in your home with information about your pets in case of fire, so that rescue personnel know to look for them in an emergency. Pets are very important family members to care for, too! — S.M.K.D., via e-mail
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