Pandemic pets still need our love

Whether you’re a dog person or a cat person…or even a bird person, the recent pandemic made it crystal clear that people need “someone” or something in their lives. Folks were staying home longer than they ever had before, so naturally they wanted something to love and take care of, and pets helped fill that void.

During the pandemic, cats and dogs were adopted at record levels with many shelters across the country – including our own in Kingsport – essentially running out of pets to adopt. That’s a good thing. However, there’s been an unfortunate side effect of life returning to normal. Not everyone is capable (or willing) to keep their pandemic pets.

“We adopted most of our animals during the pandemic, but unfortunately some have been coming back,” said Donna Davidson, manager of Petworks Animals Services in Kingsport. “A lot of people went back to work and I guess they just couldn’t take care of their pets.” Many shelters in our region are experiencing the same phenomenon, Davidson said. Earlier this year is when people started bringing their pets (mostly dogs) back to the Petworks facility (located at 3101 E. Stone Drive in Kingsport).

Currently, Petworks has approximately 90 dogs and more than 140 cats. As sad as it is to hear about animals being returned to the shelter, on the bright side now is a great time to adopt one of these animals.

If you want to adopt a pandemic pet, Davidson has these tips for first-time pet families:

• Take your time when adopting a pet and research the breed beforehand.
• Use the meet & greet room at Petworks to get to know the pet.
• Make sure your house is as pet proof as possible. Remember, cats tend to scratch and puppies tend to chew, so be sure to have scratching posts and chew toys available.
• When you pick out a pet, make sure it’s the right fit for your family, especially if you have children or other pets.
• Petworks will conduct a home visit if you select a bully breed dog to see if the environment is safe for the owners and the dog.
• If your dog is staying outside, state law requires a dog be either on a leash or in a fenced yard with access to food, water and a doghouse.
• All animals will be spayed and neutered before leaving Petworks.
• Remember to keep your pets’ vaccines up to date and get them a yearly exam with a
  veterinarian.
• Don’t come to Petworks expecting the animals to be house-trained.
  For more information about adopting a cat or a dog, contact Petworks at 423-247-1671 or visit www.petworkstn.com.