Scratchings-and-Sniffings

Posted by Animals at 5:39 PM Monday, September 14, 2009

Scratchings-and-Sniffings

House Pets: Why Dogs Should Be Kept Indoors

Posted: 14 Sep 2009 07:33 AM PDT

Carmie-and-Wabby Our little neighborhood is very pet friendly. Almost every house has a dog, and maybe a cat. It's hard to tell with the cats because the indoor cats aren't always visible (though we do see some sitting in the window). Every morning you can find a half dozen people walking their dogs, and every afternoon, another half dozen are out with their dogs.

Many cats, to my disappointment, run freely- and on one street, they are very territorial. We call them the "killer cats" because they actively stalk anyone and anything that comes down their street! When we would walk Carmie down their street, they followed us...staying just far enough away as to not get Carmie's attention. Tom and I were pretty sure these cats would have attacked, with the slightest provocation!

At any rate, as winter begins to make its presence felt - oops! did I upset anyone? Winter is coming, you know! Anyway, as the cold weather sneaks in on us, I hope everyone is preparing a proper place inside for your dogs. Dogs do not belong out doors all the time. It's just wrong!

Over at WAOW.com, this great article discusses why keeping a dog out outdoors all the time is a bad idea. One of the most important reasons has to do with the discussion Dr. Larry started about dogs and domestication: dogs are pack animals. They need to be with the pack, not outside, in the backyard all alone. Reading-to-your-dog

The article also goes on to note that "backyard dogs have more behavioral problems", like digging, constant barking, and even aggression. It's so sad to watch dogs that are left outdoors all the time - they follow you with those big eyes, almost asking to be petted or given some small bit of attention. (IMHO)

The article also talks about cats - which is good, too. You know how Dr. Larry and I feel about cats. They should be kept indoors all the time! Outdoor living, even just for a few hours a day, contributes to overpopulation, cat fights, disease, and serious accidents. Why chance it? Keep your kitty inside and give her climbing toys and squeaky toys and all the comforts of home with lots of love and fun things to do.

That's my post today. Don't make your dog live outdoors. Not in spring, summer, fall or winter. Don't think, "it's okay - the dog likes it." They don't. Don't think your dog doesn't have feelings. He does. Be a good pet parent and give your dog a place indoors. A nice, big crate with a soft bed. He'll be thrilled, and you won't be sorry.

And, keep your cats safe by providing them a home indoors. They can look out the window - it doesn't make them crazy. Being chased by dogs or other animals, does.

When you're thinking of where to keep your dog, think of this: dogs protect their own. If they are left outdoors, then the yard is what they protect. Indoors - well, they'll protect you. Doesn't that make sense?

0 comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)