FEATURE
Terrorizing : the creation of a “ climate of fear ” or an unpredictable threat or hostility , preventing the victim from experiencing a sense of security .
Taunting : teasing , provoking , harassing .
Isolating : active prevention of social interactions and companionship .
Abandonment : desertion and termination of care .
Over pressuring : placing excessive demands or pressure to perform and achieve .
Of course , when it comes to caring for animals , how exactly to determine ‘ emotional abuse ’ is tricky and often open to disagreement . What some consider normal or even good care will for others look more like abuse . For example , some consider Cesar Millan ’ s methods of discipline abusive , while others find his methods appropriate and effective .
( Source : http :// www . psychologytoday . com / blog / all-dogs-go-heaven / 201204 / emotional-pain-inanimals-invisible-world-hurt )
Animals who have been abandoned are looking for love and affection . If you bring home an abandoned furry friend , be committed to giving them unconditional love , care and attention . Any emotional ‘ baggage ’ that an abandoned pet is said to come with can be overcome with love and affection and likely to prevent behaviour problems . Timid pets are likely to find adjusting to new environments difficult , especially if other pets also live in the same territory so be careful when introducing new pets to one another .
Below are a few points you should think about before you decide to adopt a pet :
• It is a lifetime commitment . Are you ready for that ? An abandoned pet has suffered enough emotional trauma . It doesn ’ t deserve to go through it a second time .
• Who will be the primary caretaker ?
• Costs . Pets are a great addition to the family . However , they have to be looked after . Food , grooming and medical are three main costs you should be able to afford . You need to commit to regular visits to the vet and be ready to care for the pet in case he or she has any special needs .
• If you have young children , think about how you will introduce the pet to them and how well they can take care of it .
• Allergies . If you or someone in your family is allergic to feline fur , please be aware beforehand and adopt only if you can manage to keep them . If you are unable to keep them , don ’ t leave them abandoned , try and find them a loving home where they can live .
• If you travel a lot , can you arrange and afford temporary boarding ?
• Space . Do you have enough room in your house to add a pet and their belongings ? Pets require a certain environment and habitat to be comfortable . Dogs are required to be taken for walks and some cats too like to go outdoors . It is important that you analyse your pets habits and try and accommodate for them .
Lastly , when you decide to adopt your pet from a shelter or foster home or rescue one from your neighbourhood , just think about the happiness you will be bringing into their lives and the emotional pain and trauma you will be saving them from .
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