[ Saved from CL forum in 2011. Author, unknown. ]

Please think it over.

This section, it depresses me. For those of you on here working for a rescue or fostering someone else's pets, I applaud you. For everyone else: What the heck is your problem? Did someone distribute an extra dose of shortsightedness into your life recently?
How many times here do I get to see ad's for a 'One year old cat, no shots, not fixed, needs a new home' or 'Dog, 10 years old and do not have time for anymore?'

What is this? I mean, really, you adopted a kitten not thinking that down the road, this kitten will grow up and need to be fixed? You 'forgot' that vet bills and shots cost money? You are in college and don't want to try and find another place that will let you keep this animal YOU TOOK ON THE RESPONSIBILITY OF OWNING when you bought it?

And the older pets... Gods, this kills me. Really. This animal has loved you, looked up to you, spent the best years of its life with you, been in your home for how long and your just going to dump it off because you 'Don't have time anymore'? Ask the dog! I am sure it is still happy to see you at the end of the day, no matter how long and crappy of a shift you had to pull. To that dog, you are the center of the universe and IT LOVES YOU UNCONDITIONALLY. That is a rare and blessed gift that you are throwing away.

I am sorry to rant, but please folks.... Think it over. When you see that cute little ball of fuzz in the pet store window, please realize that its not a fun little toy to be bought and dumped aside or 'donated' like all the rest of the garbage in your life. Its a 10-20 year commitment that will cost you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Its a living, breathing creature that will give you all of its love, and ask for your love in care in return.

We are supposed to be the bigger species. Please, start acting like it.
Thanks.
author unknown