Dear Freecycle Members,
At this time, we are still allowing the Offering of animals in our group. However, we were concerned recently after seeing several posts wanting to give animals as gifts for the holidays.
The decision to adopt an animal is one that should be considered long and hard, and giving an animal as a "gift" often leads to bad outcomes months later when kittens and puppies are no longer "cute and cuddly".
We consulted an employee of a shelter who had this to say about pet gifts:
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Subject: Giving cats, dogs, or other living beings over the holidays or anytime of the year!!
"People who give away pets are urged to be selective about prospective owners. For the animals' protection, asking and checking personal and veterinary references as well as a personal visit to the animals new home is recommended before the pet is transferred.
Animals are not "toys", but are living breathing, beings with feelings just like humans!! Please remember this as we approach this season of giving & do what is best for our furry, four legged friends!
After Christmas, many animals are turned out to the streets to "fend for themselves" and procreate at an alarmingly fast rate! Please, do not add to this carnage that will result by not checking personal & veterinary references.
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While this response may seem harsh, humane league and shelter employees see the sad aftermath of many pet "gifts" who were not well thought out in advance. Pets require a lot of attention, both emotional and physical.
Please remember, as our consultant said, an animal is not a toy, it is a long-term commitment. There is no such thing as a FREE pet.
Pets simply do not make good gifts. The decision to adopt a pet must be agreed upon by the entire family. Parents must be prepared to care for a pet 100%, no matter how much a child swears they will feed, water, brush, walk and care for one. Frequently children become bored or frustrated with pet care. Adopt a pet only if you personally are willing to do everything necessary to keep your pet happy and healthy for the next 15 years or more.
Thank you for being responsible pet owners!
Your Friendly Tacoma Area Freecycle(TM) Moderators
Questions? Comments? TacomaAreaFreecycle-owner@yahoogroups.com
QUICK GUIDE TO CORRECT SUBJECT LINE FORMAT:
(Use ONLY one of these four keywords)
OFFER: couch - (Your Home Location)
TAKEN: couch - (Your Home Location)
WANTED: garden hose - (Your Home Location)
RECEIVED: garden hose - (Your Home Location)
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Please join our new forum, the Tacoma Area Freecycle Café. It is a place where you can share links, services, resources, community agencies, volunteer opportunities, trade, or barter.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TacomaAreaFreecycle_Cafe
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COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS? Email: TacomaAreaFreecycle-owner@yahoogroups.com
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