Giving a Pet this Holiday Season? Read on...

With the holidays quickly approaching, the Nassau County SCPA would like to remind folks to think carefully before you give a pet as a Holiday gift. Animals come with responsibilities, and the person receiving them may not be prepared to adequately provide for the animal’s care. When the holidays end, the kids go back to school, and the adults go back to work, what happens to the new pet? A pet is not a stuffed toy that can be tossed on the shelf when the newness wears off; the reality is that a pet is a serious long term responsibility and the decision to include a pet into any home should come only after careful consideration. Please don’t just “get a pet for the kids,” unless you are prepared for a lifetime commitment!

The Nassau County SPCA would like you to remember to start at your local town animal shelter.You’ll find dogs and cats of all sizes, breeds, colors, temperaments and personalities at your local shelter. Want a high-energy ball player to be your activity partner? How about a low-key but lovable lug to share couch potato duties with you? Shelter staff and volunteers can counsel you and your family on the best pet to fit your lifestyle. By giving a home to a shelter or rescue animal, you save a life and create space for another needy animal, helping to reduce the number of unwanted and homeless animals in your community. There may not be a greater gift for homeless animals than to open your heart and home to them. For more information about the NCSPCA or to report animal cruelty, call 516-the-spca or email them at www.nassaucountyspca.org

Now take that advice and pop on down to Last Hope Animal Rescue in Wantagh to meet two adorable animals available for adoption: Abe and Benson.

Abe is a very handsome Redbone Coonhound mix from a Kentucky shelter. He’s about 2 years old and 70+ pounds and his mouth and jowls suggest that perhaps he is mixed with Boxer or Mastiff. This big boy is very outgoing and playful, and because of his size and enthusiasm, Abe will need someone who can be consistent when teaching him canine etiquette. Honest, this handsome guy would love to meet you, so head on down to Last Hope today, or check him out on the web athttp://lasthopeanimalrescue.org/2014/06/abe/

If you’re more of a cat lover, Benson is the cute and playful kitten pictured above. Rescued from Brooklyn, Benson has been a sweet addition to the Last Hope family. Benson is described as an adorable kitty who will keep you entertained for hours before he snuggles up in your arms for a nap. Come and see if Benson is a perfect match for you! http://lasthopeanimalrescue.org/2014/11/benson/

Thanks for reading and please remember to adopt, not shop!