More Aussies Are Giving Up Their Pet to a Shelter

At the start of COVID, news sites and social media were abuzz with the record breaking increase in pet adoption. Now, however, many are giving up a pet to a shelter because they can no longer care for them. Pandemic pressure has taken a toll on people and pets, with shelters once again becoming overcrowded.

In some instances, abandoned pets are being destroyed in a manner no loving pet owner would wish on any animal. The shooting of 15 rescue dogs and puppies is one such example. Many of these dogs and puppies could have had successful happy futures in good homes. But they weren’t given the chance.

In response to the incident Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst has tabled a bill to put an end to “convenience killing in pounds”. Just one week ago the bill passed the NSW upper house – that’s one small step for people and one giant step for pets.

Giving up a pet to a shelter. Why?

With a pet in almost two-thirds of Australian households we’re a pet loving nation. So why would anyone be giving up their pet to a shelter?

There are many reasons this can happen. For example, the pandemic put lots of strain on our lives, both financially and mentally. Many Australians have had to downsize their job, and even their home.

These types of unforeseen pressures can also have knock-on effects. Financial hardship can cause mental strain and in some relationships can even lead to break-ups. In a break-up, pets often aren’t looked after the way they were (read pet prenup to safeguard against this). Or they may simply move to a new rental that won’t allow pets.

Not everyone giving up their pet to a shelter wants to, but often they have no choice. What’s important is that these pets deserve a second chance. This is why for those looking for a new pet, it’s always a wonderful idea to consider pet adoption.

Some are giving up a pet to a shelter but others can adopt

Anyone planning on becoming a first time pet owner should consider adopting from a shelter. Shelters don’t always have a particular breed or very young puppies, but then again they sometimes do. And even when they don’t, they may still have that one special dog that’s just waiting to be your best bud.

When you adopt a pet you’re doing it for you. But you’re also doing it to give some future furry member of the family a loving home. Not to mention helping reduce the pressure on animal shelters.

Here are some quick links to things to know when you’re adopting a pet:

• Bringing home an adopted dog
• Older dogs for adoption
• Retired greyhounds for adoption
• Dog adoption checklist
• Ready to adopt a cat

Emma Hurst’s new bill means councils will need to work with rescue groups to rehome animals that would otherwise be destroyed. As an adoptive pet parent, you’ll be helping her cause and make Australia a safer space for all animals.

If however, you’re hooked on buying a purebred dog, then make sure you’re not scammed. Being a responsible pet parent starts with buying your pet responsibly. Here’s how…

How to buy a pet responsibly

The effect of COVID on pet safety has been far reaching. Not only must one safeguard against giving up a pet to a shelter, but when buying it’s easy to fall prey to puppy scams. COVID made it harder for buyers and sellers to reach one another and generally put a kink in the supply chain.

The knock-on effect was that pets suddenly became valuable commodities, and a new black market of pet trade started. This resulted in a plethora of stolen dogs, taken to breed or resell. Puppy farms and fake sellers capitalised on our deep desire for companion animal company during lockdown.

However, like with any black market, if no one supports it, it will eventually fold. Read about avoiding puppy mills and finding a reputable breeder and how to buy a puppy safely to avoid being hoodwinked.

Pet insurance: kind to pet and your pocket

When your pet gets sick or injured the last thing you want to have to do is weigh their value against the cost of the bill. This is why having pet insurance is key to keeping your pet safe from harm. A dog insurance or cat insurance plan will help you cover costs for medication, surgery, hospitalisation and much, much more.

If you buy online with us you get one or more months free, depending on the age of your pet. Why wait a moment longer – press the button below and get your quote for our award-winning pet insurance now.