Why should you choose to rescue a pet?

Adoption myths exposed.

If you’ve decided you want to bring a new fluffy bundle of joy into your household, we couldn’t be more excited for you! No matter what pet you choose, you’ll be blown away by how rewarding and enjoyable the experience is.

Before you make your final decision, have you considered rescuing a pet?

Dogs and cats end up in shelters and rescue homes for a variety of reasons; sometimes owners become too old or unwell to care for their animals, and often others just don’t have the time to provide animals with the life they truly deserve. Shelters can be full of beautiful, healthy, well-tempered cats and dogs, perfect for all sorts of lifestyles.

So, if you’re ready for a new pet, why not consider providing one of these animals a forever home?

Adoption myths debunked

The stigmas surrounding animal shelters simply aren’t true! Here are some common beliefs:

#1: Shelter animals are unpredictable – you don’t know what you’re getting.

Not all pets are rescued from abandonment or mistreatment. Lots of pets that come into rescue homes come from private, loving owners or foster homes. Their temperaments, health and behaviour can be confirmed by staff, thus all pets can be easily matched to your lifestyle. If the pet has come to the shelter from a loving home, they will often be well trained and socialised, meaning they can easily adapt to you and your family.

#2: You can’t get purebreds or kittens/puppies from shelters.

You’d be incredibly surprised how many purebreds are currently sitting in rescue homes, and sometimes whole litters of puppies/kittens come in last minute. You may even find a breed-specific shelter in your area, if you take some time to research. Mixed breed dogs can be just as lovely as purebreds, too, and shelters are a great place to take some time to meet all sorts of different personalities. 

#3: Animals in shelters have something wrong with them.

Pets are given up for all sorts of reasons, none of which are the pet’s fault:

• Owners are moving house
• Owners can no longer afford the pet
• Owners no longer have time to train or care for the pet
• Owners didn’t neuter or spay their pets, and can’t look after any offspring

Shelter pets are healthy and ready to go, often with just a small donation. Make sure your pet insurance policy is in order, and you’re set!

You’ll never know what could be waiting for you unless you take the time to look.

Do you know someone who is considering getting a new pet? Do you have any stories or tips of your own? Let us know! Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter or Instagram and join our Paws & Claws community!