Why pet adoption is a great idea
Pets make great companions and the human-animal bond plays an important and positive role in the health and wellbeing of our community. If you’re considering adding a pet to your household, adopting a pet can be a great way to help an animal in need.
Around Australia, there are many pet rescue organisations, animal shelters and veterinary practices which look after stray, neglected or rescued pets. These pets may be of various different species, breeds and age. Pets may have ended up in this situation for a variety of reasons, and being adopted and re-homed is the best outcome for them to be loved and stay happy and healthy.
Depending on your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a pet, there are a few things you should consider when looking to adopt a pet. Firstly, have a think about what type of pet might suit your home and how active you are, plus how a new pet might integrate with any other existing pets. Younger pets may often be more energetic, and older animals might enjoy a slower pace of life. Remember that it’s not just dogs and cats that need re-homing, as birds, exotic pets and horses often become available for adoption too.
You can often view online listings of pets available for adoption, or you could visit an animal shelter to see first-hand the pets they’re looking after. Shelter or veterinary staff will usually be able to provide further insight and advice about an animal’s temperament and suitability for your needs. If you are hoping to adopt a particular breed of animal, then speak with your veterinarian about any potential health concerns associated with that breed.
When it gets down to choosing your new adopted pet, there are resources available incorporating advice on choosing a puppy, kitten, bird or other rescue pet. Some breeds also have specific adoption resources, such as if you want to consider adopting a retired greyhound.
Once you’ve taken on your new adopted pet, it’s important to take them for a health check with your veterinarian. They’ll be able to check the animal’s condition and provide specific advice on diet, training and whether any treatment or medications are needed for any problems or diseases the pet may have. Introducing your new adopted pet to your household is an exciting time, and it’s important to be calm, take it slowly, and provide lots of praise. Depending on the age and ability of your new pet, doing some behavioural training will help their transition into their new home and help strengthen the human-animal bond.
If you are the proud owner of a newly adopted pet and have any queries or concerns about their health or behaviour, speak with your veterinarian for further advice. In re-homing the pet, you’re helping one of the many thousands of animals which come into shelters or are rescued every year. The rewards of adopting a pet are great, both to you and your new pet.
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