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DEAR PAW’S CORNER:
I read about Sherrie’s dilemma in trying to rehome her grandmother’s cats. Should she maybe put a notice in the newspaper or on Facebook that the cats need a good home? — Gerry O., via email
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DEAR GERRY:
On the surface, it seems like a good idea. But there are some dangers involved in rehoming cats using these routes. In fact, many publications and some social media sites — most notably, Facebook — do not allow posts about pets being available for free or for sale.
The danger for pets is that they could go to a home that’s not going to meet their needs, where they may be abused. They may not even go to a home — dogs, puppies and even kittens have been obtained this way by promoters of illegal dog fights, or by others with bad intentions, where they meet a terrible end.
For humans, the danger with rehoming via the internet is that the person they’re meeting may be setting them up as a target. Whether to rob them directly or initiate a con job to get even more money out of them, the danger is real.
The best ways for Sherrie to get the word out about needing to rehome the cats is to talk directly to friends and relatives, let the veterinarian know and contact the local shelter. More information can be found by searching for “rehoming your pet” at the national Humane Society website (www.humanesociety.org).
Send your questions, tips and comments to ask@pawscorner.com.
(c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.
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