Why Do Pets End up in Shelters?
Kathy McKeen
Studies
by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (NCPPSP) and various
animal shelters found several common reasons why people get rid of their pets.
In many cases, surrendering of the pet is unnecessary.
There are many resources to help you work through each of these
situations and help you keep your pet. Please remember: A
pet is a commitment for the life of the animal.
Your pet is your responsibility.
·
Moving
While it may be difficult in some areas, it is possible to find apartments and homes that allow pets. Pets can be driven across country, or flown. If moving overseas, your pet may be subject to quarantine, for as long as 6 months. In this case, it may be preferable to rehome the pet. The best option is to place the pet with a trusted friend or family member, with whom the pet is already familiar.
·
Landlord
not allowing pet
This is something you should think about BEFORE getting a pet. That's why all reputable shelters, rescues, and breeders will inquire about your living arrangements and require proof of pet acceptance by your landlord. If your landlord will not allow the pet due to destruction or behavioral issues, seek professional advice in dealing with the behavior rather than surrendering your companion.
·
Too
many animals in household/ Not getting along with other pets
Again,
this is something that should be considered before getting a pet. Know your limits and don't take in more than you can handle. If the situation is dangerous, rehoming the pet is best, but
first try to find a way to work it out. Pets
need time to get used to each other.
·
Cost
of pet maintenance
Many
people consider only the initial cost for purchasing/ adopting a pet.
Not only will you need to consider the cost of routine exams and
vaccinations, heartworm preventative, flea and tick control, grooming, high
quality food, toys, training, collar and leash, ID, etc., but you have to
consider what you will do if your pet suddenly becomes ill, possibly even
needing surgery. If you are in a
tough financial situation, are there other ways to cut your expenses?
Will your vet allow you to pay off your account on a weekly or monthly
basis instead of all in one lump sum?
·
Owner
having personal problems
No
matter how difficult it may seem, this is no time to abandon your pet.
Just like a child, your pet needs you in good times and bad, and pets can
be wonderful therapy! If
the situation is dangerous for you or the pet (e.g. abuse), please do
what is best for you and your pet and get the help you need.
·
Inadequate
facilities
Before
you get a pet, consider whether you have the space.
Even small dogs need room to expend energy. Are you willing to take your dog out for regular walks and
play times?
·
No
homes available for litter mates
This
is easy: Spay or neuter your pets.
Then they will not create more unwanted puppies and kittens.
·
Having
no time for pet
It
is better to relinquish the pet rather than neglect it.
However, this excuse is too often used by people who wanted a companion
but who simply don't want to make the time to spend with their pet; training,
playing, feeding, etc.
·
Pet
illness
Like
children, pets will get sick, and it is your responsibility to care for them.
Oftentimes, however, it is an incurable illness or disease, and the most humane
option is euthanasia. If this is
the case, it is best to take your pet to your regular vet, where you can be with
your beloved companion in his/her last moments, rather than bring it to a
shelter.
·
Biting
(dogs)
If
a dog bites, it is not OK to dump it on someone else, unless they specialize in
aggressive animals. In many cases
the behavior can be prevented with proper training and socialization; and can
often be corrected with behavioral modification training.
In some cases, however, there is little hope for rehabilitation, and the
dog must be euthanized. Most
shelters and rescues will not accept or adopt out aggressive dogs.
·
Allergies
in family (cats)
If
the allergy is very severe, it may be necessary to rehome the pet.
However, most allergies can be dealt with via medication
and good housekeeping habits.
·
House
soiling
Sometimes
cats and dogs will eliminate in inappropriate places.
For dogs, proper training can solve this problem.
Cats are more difficult, as they are very clean animals. But it is
possible, and this is no excuse to get rid of a companion.
Your pet is trying to communicate to you that there is something wrong
(illness) or something they are unhappy about (litter box not cleaned regularly,
unacceptable type of litter, or too long before being taken outside).
But since your pet can not speak in a language you understand, you will
need to spend time and figure out what they are trying to communicate.
One of the most common causes of cats urinating outside of the
litterbox is a urinary tract infection. Please
see your vet for treatment.
·
Having
a baby
Babies
and pets can coexist happily. It is
your choice to have a pet, it is your choice to have a baby, and they are both
your responsibility. Before your
baby is born, think about how your routine will change. Take your pet to training class if you haven’t already.
This will strengthen your bond and establish your role as dominant.
Your local humane society is a good resource for advice about introducing
pets to a new baby.
There are times when it is best to rehome a pet, and
that's why shelters and rescues exist. However,
notice that most of the issues listed above are things to consider BEFORE
getting a pet, and most of them can be prevented if one thinks carefully before
purchasing or adopting an animal. That is why most rescues, shelters, and responsible breeders
will ask you to fill out an extensive questionnaire before adopting a pet from
them. Please remember that dogs and
cats are living beings. When
deciding to get a pet, you must realize that this is a 10-20 year commitment,
and there may be behavior and medical issues along the way that
will take time and money on your part.
ARPO can provide suggestions or references for the issues mentioned
above. Pets are wonderful
companions and will reward you a million times over with unconditional love if
you give them the chance.
Alliance
for Responsible Pet Ownership
P.O. Box 6385
Fishers, IN 46038
317-774-8292
adoptarpo@hotmail.com