Now that the new year has begun, millions of young animals — those originally welcomed as holiday pets — will wind up in shelters (often to be euthanized). Why were so many families unprepared for a pet? Should “pet parenthood” require a special test or adoption criteria? What should all families know before adopting a new animal companion, at any time of year?
Explore this important topic on-air with renowned expert Diane Pomerance, Ph.D., who will reveal what it takes to prepare one’s home, kids and lifestyle for a pet. She’ll offer questions that should be on every pet adoption “application”:

• Where will your pet eat, sleep and play?

• Who will be your pet’s primary caregiver? Who will handle, or share, the feeding, walking, litter box changing, etc.?

• Can you afford pet supplies and veterinarian expenses?

• Why are you really considering a new pet?

• Is your child mature enough? Will YOU have the time and energy?

• Who would inherit your animal companion if you become unable to provide pet care?

CREDENTIALS: Nationally-respected animal expert Dr. Diane Pomerance has authored numerous articles and books including PET PARENTHOOD, ANIMAL ELDERS, WHEN YOUR PET DIES, and the 5-book THE ANIMAL COMPANION Book Series (with accompanying CDs). She can discuss many topics related to animal companions and pet adoptions, including pet food recalls, controversy over microchip implants and pets abandoned as a result of the housing foreclosure epidemic.

AVAILABILITY: Texas, nationwide by arrangement and via telephone; available last-minute
CONTACT: Dr. Diane Pomerance, (817) 430-1046 (TX); chmeezepal@aol.com; www.animalcompanionsandtheirpeople.com