What They Mean to Us Our Four-Legged Best Friends

B Y ROSEMARY BLACK

Looking for a steadfast companion who provides unconditional love and loyalty, isn’t judgmental, and knows how to snuggle? Perhaps you could use a friend to exercise with and accompany you on long walks. Who can you turn to for this perfect friendship? Many people would tell you to adopt a pet.

Those of us who may be feeling isolated or alone can experience wonderful companionship from a pet, says Lisa BonannoSpence, director of development at the SPCA in Briarcliff Manor. “A pet gives you a reason to be a little more active,” she says, and can help get you out and about, and socializing.

Westchester County is a great place to live when it comes to owning a pet. “There are so many resources in Westchester for pet owners,” Bonanno-Spence notes. “There are canine boarding facilities, pet sitters, and even vets will occasionally board your pet when you travel.”

Pets offer abounding love and they don’t hold grudges! “They say you live longer when you have a pet,” offers Paula Krenkel of PetRescue in Harrison, where cats and dogs are available for adoption.

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Kirstin Mende and her mother Maria Mende are the cofounders of Lucky Dog Refuge in Stamford, Connecticut. She believes there aren't any negatives when it comes to adopting a rescue. “For a senior, an animal can be the center of your world and the reason you get up every day,” she says. “Some rescue organizations will not adopt out to anyone over 60 or 65. We know that age is just a number and we know how comforting a rescue can be.”

Before you decide to commit, here are some things to consider:

Think about adopting a “senior” animal. Most of the time, these more seasoned pets have lived in a home and already have some training, encourages BonannoSpence. “Older pets are calm and mellow once they get into their golden years,” she says. “Senior dogs make good companions, which is so nice for anyone of any age.”

Keep your lifestyle in mind. How often do you travel and who would care for a pet while you are away? Who would care for her if you were to get sick?

Take all the costs of pet ownership into account, advises Krenkel. “It is a big financial investment,” she says. “Expect $1,000 a year for basic care. And you really need to think carefully, since there is added expense if the cat (or dog) gets sick.”

If you live in a rental apartment or a condominium, learn about any and all regulations from your landlord or your condo association, cautions Krenkel. There may be restrictions on the size or breed of the dog.