Going To The Dogs from page 1

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16 • DECEMBER 2005 • JN GIFT GUIDE II

Today, Katz is the author of
several books, including The Dogs
of Bedlam Farm and Katz on Dogs.
He estimates that some "70 mil-
lion dogs and at least as many
cats" are leading happy lives with
human families.
"We've really seen an explosion
in pets in recent years," he says.
And for good reason. "Pets fill a
need in our lives," he says.
Work concerns, world news too
painful to even listen to, a lack of
time, increasing stress, family
issues — everything can be going
on in your life "and here is a crea-
ture who loves you no matter
what. Pets offer support, stability
and affection."
Still, before committing to a
pet, be absolutely sure that's the
right choice for you and that it's
what your child really wants, Katz
advises. "The parent who says,
'I'm going to get my child a dog
for Chanukah or Christmas' —
that's a mistake.
"People who get dogs for their
kids need to be careful," he con-
tinues. First, make sure that's what
the child really wants. Then, like
Dr. Dworkis, Katz reminds parents
that they need to be prepared to
care for the pet themselves. "Kids
can't really take care of dogs," he
says. "Don't believe a child who
tells you he'll take the dog for a
walk in the winter."

Instead, make certain that at
least one adult in the home has the
time and is prepared to make "a
long commitment" to grooming,
walking, vet care, playing with and
exercising a pet. "If these give you
pause, don't get an animal," he
says.
The next step is which pet to
get? Your little Johnny may insist
that "every other kid I know has a
snake; and I want one, too," but
Katz says that the perennial
favorites, dogs and cats, are the
best choice. (Families looking for a
smaller animal should consider a
hamster or gerbil, or perhaps fish,
he says).
Next, carefully consider where
you'll get your cat or dog.
Katz recommends an experi-
enced breeder, a rescue group or
the humane society only, because
here you'll be able to find out
about the dog's history and see
whether it's really compatible with
your family.
Whatever you do, remember
that a dog is not a puppy and a cat
is not a kitten forever. They look
so small and tiny when you first
see them, but in no time "that dog
will smell, chew things, make
noise and shed," Katz says. "You're
not getting one of those dogs like
you see on TV, the dog that never
goes to the bathroom."