Taking In
STRAY ANIMALS BY LISA WETZEL, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ASANTA CUNNINGHAM
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ou see a dog in an alley whose fur is matted and patches missing. It looks up at you and you become captivated as it gives you those puppy dog eyes. You suddenly feel that urge that you want to do something for the dog. You decide you want to adopt it. So you go to it, pet it, and take it to your home. Even though your heart is in the right place, that is what you should not do when you come across a stray animal, even if it does give you the puppy eyes. Cats and dogs are the most commonly found strays that people try to bring into their home. Usually they do this because they feel sorry for the animal and believe that they are helping it. What most people fail to realize, though, is that just because an animal looks healthy, doesn’t
mean it is healthy. Many strays suffer from parasites, worms, or a number of different diseases that they contracted from garbage cans, streets, or even other animals. By bringing said animal into your home, you also invite any unwelcomed guests that are attached. What should you do then if you come across a stray? Call the city and let them handle it. Handling things yourself can be very dangerous and not just because of parasites. If a stray suddenly feels threatened by your presence, or is very skittish, it may attack you out of fear. So, if you really want to adopt a furry friend, consider going to an animal shelter or pound and be sure to get them checked for bugs. TRUE STAR JR. 7