Thursday, July 17, 2008

The Human-Animal Bond

"People often ask the veterinarian, 'What would you do if this were your pet?' And I think that's fair - but it's tough. It just really is something that each family has to decide on their own, with their own perspective. Time, finances, family - all those come into play." Dr. Deborah Kochevar, dean of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University (as reported by the Boston Globe)

"In other words, realistically, what can or can't you do? Does your pet need substantial hands-on care, but you work long hours away from home? That the quality of life for the pet is inextricably linked to the quality of life of the owner or guardian also plays out in a way that we might not think of: It's important through a medical crisis to be a calming, comforting influence. To even leave room for joy." from Boston Globe article "How Far Should We Go to Save Our Pets?"

Please note, you may need to register for a free account with boston.com to review the complete article.

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