Pet Page
For love and for life
From the SPA
By Christine Foster

Most of the animals at the SPA are rescued strays, but some have been wrenched from secure and loving homes—not by uncaring strangers, but by their owners. Shelter life is always tougher on pets because they have known something better. The decision to give up a companion animal is (or should be) a very difficult one. However, some owners seem to feel that the commitment they made to their pet is not a very binding one.

Perhaps they ease their mind with the belief that Rags or Rapunzel is so darned adorable she’s going to be adopted the very next week. The reality is that, yes, at some US and Canadian shelters many dogs and puppies are adopted within days of arriving. But this just isn’t the case in San Miguel. The SPA has an adoption record we are very proud of, and we keep healthy adoptable animals until they find a home, but that wait can be months and in a few (rare) instances has stretched to several years. The reason is simple. We are a small community and many of the staunchest animal lovers have heroically taken in four, five or even more and have a very full house already. So, before considering surrendering your companion, please do ask yourself three things:

1. If the challenge is your pet’s behavior, could it be corrected with training?

2. If you have allergies, are there steps that you can take to help control your symptoms?

3. If you are concerned that you simply don’t have enough time to spend with your companion animal, could you hire a pet-sitter or dog-walker to help out?

Perhaps your reasons for surrendering your companion are truly unavoidable, but it pays to be honest with yourself about her prospects. Do take time to talk to your friends and family and try to find a solution within that trusted circle. Your pet deserves no less. Any shelter, though humane, clean and caring, should truly be a last resort.

Most owners, of course, would sooner part with their car than their four-legged friend. 

One dog who would make any commitment a joy is Pinquica. She loves to play, to explore, to be taken on outings with volunteers at the SPA. At eight months of age, she is curious, well-adjusted, an all-round darling and favorite of all who meet her. She is a star in our wonderful training program and shines with the excitement and pleasure of pleasing whoever is working with her, whether an adult or a seven-year-old. She is completely unaggressive and not much of a barker, and would make a heartwarming and adorable addition to your forever family.

Another volunteer favorite is Leslie, a slim and loving lad who eagerly greets volunteers who come to hang out in the male cat cage. He was one of triplets, all identical black beauties, and he is the last one left of his litter. Healthy, sleek and personable, this is a classy cat with a big heart.

Visit the SPA in person 11am–2pm weekdays at Los Pinos 7, a right turn off Calzada de la Estación, just before the bus station. Call 152-6124 or visit www.spasanmiguel.org  for further information.


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