Believe me, I'm no card carrying PETA-type person, but I do have a deep love of animals. And I believe if you are going to take one on as a pet, you have a responsibility to that animal, in good times and in bad.
And the cost of keeping and caring for an animal for their lifespan MUST be factored into your decision. Also your contingency if you are unable to care for your pet any longer.
I see *too* many people using the disposable pet approach.
And that gets me steamed.
So why am I ranting on this topic today?
Because of this article in both the Las Cruces Sun News and the ABQjournal today:
Horses May Be Relinquished as People Economize
Seems as the economy gets tough, people are looking to give their horses to Dona Ana County animal control, who only has capacity to handle a few.
Owning a horse is a lot of hard work. They eat a lot (and feed prices get driven by ever upward spiraling corn prices). They need to be ridden and exercised. They need a lot of vet services. And farrier work too.
While I know that when times are rough, expenses and "nice to haves" have to be cut back.
But abandoning your animal? Not cool.
From the Las Cruces Sun News article:
"Childress said he's suggested horse owners try to sell their animal or find another home before contacting his office. But that can also prove difficult because of the number of horses already on the market."
Jeez.
The price of petrol affects more than just the fuel in your gas tank.
And the dominos fall.
