Welcome to the Ask Siobhan page, where you'll find common questions asked by SALI members. If you have any questions or concerns about your companion animals, or animals in your community, we would love to hear them! We'll do our very best to give you our opinion, and if we don't know the answer we will consult our large network of animal experts to find the answer. Email your questions to asksiobhan@sali.ca

Dear Siobhan, We have a 2 year old Golden Retriever Monty, he is the best family dog you could ask for.  We got Monty as a puppy from a backyard breeder, he was our first dog and we didn't know any better.  Now we are ready to add another K9 to our home and would rather not support backyard breeders or puppy mills.  We do want a purebred golden, he or she does not need to be a puppy.  Is it safe to add a rescue dog to our family?  Do they come with a lot of "baggage?"  Will we be able to find a purebred dog? Or are we better off just buying from another back yard breeder?

Signed, Cindy in Newton

Dear Cindy: Rescue dogs often make fabulous family pets and fit in perfectly with their new family members.  It is true that some rescue dogs carry excess baggage and will need extra training and care.  Often though dogs end up in rescue due to death of an owner, divorce, or economic hard times.  Many of these dogs do not come from abuse and neglect, they just no longer have a family to love them.  Local rescues are a great place to start your search.  You can find a rescued dog by specific breed on Petfinder.org, AdoptaPet.com, AdoptanAnimal.ca.  Take your time and I am sure you will find the love of your life.  Please feel free to contact SALI if you need help finding your rescue dog.

Pictured at right is Leila at the Golden Retriever Club of BC

Dear Lori, I recently acquired a cat that I am fostering for my grandmother who could no longer keep him because she moved into a retirement home that doesn't allow pets.  The cat's name is Sebastian, and I am not sure what to do with him when I go on vacation.   He is quite timid, and with the recent move I am concerned that leaving him alone for a week could be too stressful for him.  This is my first cat so I am not sure what options are available to me.  Any Suggestions?

Signed Renee & Sebastian in Morgan Creek

Dear Renee
First off, good for you for taking on the care of your grandmother's cat.   Both your grandmother and Sebastian must be so relieved that he didn't end up like thousands of other unwanted or misplaced animals.  You will get years of joy from your new family member!
I do agree that leaving a cat alone for more than a few days at a time can be quite stressful for them if they are not used to that.   Many people choose to have a friend or relative  or professional cat-sitter come to their home to check on their kitty...this works very well if they are reliable - Sebastian wouldn't have to move and you might even get your plants watered too!   If that is not an option then there are now almost as many cat-kennels as there are dog...but do your homework, some also board dogs and the noise can be quite nerve-wracking for a cat who is not accustomed to dogs.  Check you local pet store and vet. office for recommendations - they hear it all!
Good luck, I hope you both have a relaxing and stress free vacation!