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A pet is for life, not just for Christmas!

 

Ten Commandments for owning a dog 1. My life is likely to last ten to fifteen years. Any separation from you will be painful for me. Remember that before you acquire me. 2. Give me time to understand what you want from me. 3. Place your trust in me. Remember that before you acquire me. 4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, and your entertainment. I only have you. 5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it is speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget. 6. Remember before you hit me that I have teeth that can easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you. 7. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I don’t understand what you ask of me or perhaps I am not feeling well, not getting the right food, been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak. 8. Take care of me when I get old, you too will grow old. 9. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say ” I can’t bear to watch,” or “let it happen in my absence.”    Everything is easier if you are there. 10. Remember, no matter what, that I love you. Unconditionally

 

 

La SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux) was created in 1845 by Doctor Etienne Pariset. Touched by the poor treatment of many cart and carriage horses on the streets of Paris, the society was at first devoted to the welfare of horses. It grew quickly, thanks to support from several renowned French ‘intellectuals’ such as Victor Hugo and Guy de Maupassant.

 

In 1903, the first SPA refuge opened in Gennevilliers, in the suburbs of Paris.

There is now a national network of ‘refuges’, thanks, to the generosity of thousands of volunteers, and animal lovers with big hearts and welcoming homes. There is also a growing number of free animal hospitals, to treat pets whose owners are unable to pay vet’s fees.

 

The SPA today is not just about sheltering and re-homing the hundreds of thousands of pets abused and abandoned every year.

It is about the fight against cruelty to any animal: seal bashing, bull fighting, dog fighting, the fur trade, the illegal trafficking of rare species…

It is about rescuing animals who need us and prosecuting those who deliberately cause them harm.

 

Research has shown that pet owners are generally healthier and happier than non-pet owners. They have lower blood pressure and cholesterol, are less likely to become depressed. Pets can lift our spirits and help us relax.

 

They are waiting behind bars right now, hoping for release – a visit, a walk, a home….  Isn’t it the least we can do?