Multiple Pets, Multiple Issues

Lots of pet owners have more than one.

That introduces unique dynamics, reports The Early Show's resident veterinarian, Dr. Debbye Turner.

Few know that better than the Shafers in Waldwick, N.J..

Carla Shafer has her hands full raising three energetic boys and — so many pets (four dogs and six cats) that they have trouble reeling off all their names in a hurry.

They even have some hermit crabs, for good measure!

"We love animals very much," Shafer explained to Turner, "and, working with shelters and rescue groups … we take them in."

The Shafers say they love having a house full of animals. But is that the best idea?

"If they're all happy, healthy, got the right veterinary care, they're in good condition — it's a wonderful thing," observes animal behaviorist Dr. Steven Zawistowski.

He adds that the Shafers are by no means unusual, saying, "Fourteen percent of all pet-owning households have both a dog and a cat."

And, he points out, while more may be merrier, more pets mean more responsibility — more spent on food, veterinary care, etc., "and most of the other costs are going to go up."

Along with cost, there is lots of cleanup.

"It's a lot of work," Shafer says. "You have to vacuum at least twice a day."

Her sons help with caring for their pets.

"Pets can't fend for themselves," Shafer remarked. "You have to take care of them. I said, in the rain, the snow, they have to go out. And they're very good about it."

And if you think felines and canines living together would fight like, well, cats and dogs, Turner notes — not necessarily!

"Dogs that are brought up with cats around them when they're young will do perfectly fine with cats," says Zawistowski. "And cats who are brought up with dogs will do perfectly fine with dogs."

But it's important to know your limit, Turner stresses.

You have to understand the temperament of your pets, she continues, saying, "Don't add a rambunctious puppies if your existing dog is old and arthritic. It's just not fair to the dog.

"As for cats, it's best to get them at the same time. Felines especially are very territorial."

Turner offered some tips for introducing newcomers to the household: