Pets need daily fun with their owner
PET OHANA
Hawaiian Humane Society
Question: After Christmas our family makes a list of New Year's resolutions. This year, I'd like to include a resolution that improves the quality of life for our pets. Any recommendations?
Answer: Here are a few ideas that can benefit you as much as your animals.
» Make quality time with your pet a part of your daily routine. Your pet's world revolves largely, if not solely, around you, but many of us are balancing jobs, social lives, families and other commitments. Studies have shown that petting your animals reduces stress and releases relaxation hormones in your body.
» Whether you have a bird, bunny, dog or cat, take your pet for an annual physical. If you have a fat cat or a round hound, talk to your veterinarian about weight loss. You and your dog can shed pounds by swimming, walking, skating, going to an off-leash dog park and even a simple game of fetch.
» In your will or trust, name a care provider and earmark funds specifically for the animal's care. Recent revisions to state law allow you to do this via your trust or a pet trust. The Hawaiian Humane Society has free information.
» Set up a support system so that family members check in to ensure you're keeping your resolutions. A little positive reinforcement can help turn your new actions into great habits.
Q: Sometimes I hear news references to animal rights activists and animal welfare organizations. Is there a difference?
A: Animal welfare groups such as the Hawaiian Humane Society believe people have a moral responsibility to see that all animals receive certain standard levels of care and that their lives are pleasant and their deaths as painless as possible.
Animal rights groups believe that animals have legal rights that should be guaranteed just as humans' rights are. Animals should not be regarded as property, killed or eaten, or used for sport or research. Animals should not be considered "owned" by people.
Both groups agree that animals should be protected against abuse.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail,
hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.