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Lend a paw

By on May 1, 2009

Growing up, pets have always been part of our family. They bring much joy and warmth to a home. Our Labrador Retriever’s generous affection and unconditional love does the same with our family. However, the rewards of having fuzzy friends around only come with proper TLC. Here are some tips to guide you in welcoming a new pet:

1.  Pet ownership is a long-term commitment. How ready is your family?

2.  You should not get a pet
a) if the puppy in a pet store melted your heart
b) because you are lonely
c) to teach children responsibility
d) as a surprise gift
e) if you have no time and money for its needs
f) if your landlord prohibits bringing in one to live on the premises

3.  Study your living condition and how many hours you are away each day.  This will give you a hint as to what dog will suit your lifestyle.

4. Do some research. Although there are many responsible breeders in Japan, there are also shady ones as reported in the news, so take heed.

If your family wants to do more than simply take in a pet, consider adopting. Despite its rep as the world’s safest country, Japan still sees countless cases of abandoned and mistreated animals waiting to be housed.  Japan has few shelters. As such, most of the half-million cats, dogs, and other critters thrown away here annually are put down in the gas chambers, while others become science lab experiments. Giving one of these souls a home prevents that fate. The staff at existing kennels know the personalities and conditions of the animals they house, and can help you find one best suited to your family. Also, most shelter animals are eager to please!  While it does take more time, patience, and energy to care for a rescued critter than it does store-bought,  many of their new owners will assure you it’s all worth it.

5. Before a four-legged friend graces your abode, it is vital that their health is taken care of.  Look for a trusted veterinarian; there are quite a few who speak English around Tokyo.  Ask other pet owners for vet contacts to weave out the Doolittles from the duds.

6. Once your pup or kitty has reached two to six months of age, neutering should be on the agenda to ensure a healthier and longer life. Baby animals can carry with them unknown maladies, so check up early.

7. Finally, if you  would like to make a difference in these creatures’  lives,  support the cause of  animal charities either in cash or  time.

The Animal Refuge Kansai ( www.arkbark.net ) in Osaka is home to many orphaned animals. If you’re ever around, though, lend a hand in keeping house and walking dogs. A lot of tails will happily wag your way!

Long-time Tokyoites are probably aware of the abysmal populous of stray cats. Many are found to be disease-carriers deprived of medical attention. The Japan Cat Network (http://japancatnet.com) is an NPO dedicated to rectifying the problem through no-kill sheltering and “TNR” (trap-neuter-return).

(Check out the Calendar section for JCN’s upcoming Walkathon in May!)

Thinking of cheering up the family? There’s no surer bet than a happy pet.

Here are some helpful places for foreigners in animal care.

ANIMAL HOSPITALS
Airi Animal Hospital
http://hwsa5.gyao.ne.jp/airi-ani-hos/en-index.html
Tel. (03) 3415-2253

Akasaka Animal Hospital
www.akasaka-ah.com
Tel. (03) 3583-5852

Mitaka Veterinary Medical Group
2-6-4 Nakamachi,
Musashino-shi, Tokyo
Tel. (0422) 54-5183
www.pet-hospital.org

Shimada Veterinary Hospital
http://homepage1.nifty.com/shimada2000/e-index.html
Tel. (03) 3734-6427

Sakuraghaya Animal Hospital
www.sakuraghaya.jp
Tel. (03) 5451-5188

PET SITTERS
Rusuban Wannyan
www.rusubanwannyan.com

PET SUPPLIES
The Foreign Buyers’ Club
www.fbcusa.com/eng/

Pet City (Japanese only)
www.petcity.co.jp

CHARITIES
All Life in a Viable Environment
www.alive-net.net/english/index.html

Animal Refuge Kansai
www.arkbark.net

Japan Cat Network
http://japancatnet.com

BLOGS
Angels with Fur Japan
http://angelswithfurjapan.wordpress.com

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