Breaking negative perceptions of shelter pets

By Brandi Marcene

Have you ever wondered what’s wrong with adopting shelter pets? Or why should you consider adopting them?

Suppose you search for “shelter cats and dogs near me” on the web browser. Chances are Google will come up with scores of map locations and websites of shelters and rescued animals. Who knew several homeless cats and dogs were out there to be adopted?

Okay, some of us might know. You may have come across rescued pets a couple of times. However, those one or two cats or dogs you see don’t represent the huge number of furry companions out there all alone.

If you are reading this, you might already be thinking about bringing a pet to your home and considering avenues to achieve your goal. When you need a four-legged friend, multiple channels can help you in this case. Of them all, one of the best options is shelter homes. Rescued animals are the perfect option for people who need lovely and friendly animals.

Wondering about all the things you have heard about rescued animals? Are they true? Should you opt for them? Here we have discussed the myths and misconnections of rescued pets that will help you make an informed decision.

What are shelter pets, and are they different in any way?

Shelter pets are lost, stray, surrendered, or abandoned animals. Animal shelters offer a temporary home for these beautiful creatures until adoption. They are designed to protect animals, feed them, and provide a secure place to live until they meet their adoptive parents.

When it comes to the behavior and attitude of shelter dogs and cats, they are no different from others. Most animals in shelters are friendly and loving to new adoptive parents. However, few might take long to get attached or start out slightly agressive. This could happen because of the traumatic experiences and abuse they may have experienced. Generally, if the pet has any issues, the shelter management will discuss them with you, then it’s up to you to make the best decision for your family.

The stigma behind the shelter pets

One of the persistent and inexplicable myths about shelter dogs and cats is that mutts or mixed breeds are somehow inferior to purebreds. Although many animal lovers see adopting a dog, cat, or other pets as a badge of honor, many others perceive rescue animals as needy, less healthy, and difficult to train.

Therefore, most people don’t prefer adopting pets from rescue or shelter homes; instead, they contact a breeder. These stigmas are causing trouble for the rescue pets and preventing them from finding their permanent house. Let’s face it! Every animal has the right to get the love they deserve, as do the cat and dog from a shelter.

Myths about pets in animal shelters

You don’t know what you’re getting

Indeed, rescue pets don’t often come with registry papers that detail their breed and pedigree. However, many shelters perform veterinary examinations and can inform you about observed health concerns, recent vaccinations, and deworming treatments. If you want to know a shelter pet’s breed, you can entertain yourself by guessing based on their appearance or even submit a saliva sample for DNA analysis. Predicting an animal’s personality and health based on breed alone can be hard. We recommend asking shelter staff about your prospective pet’s personality and getting to know its unique traits. A comprehensive examination by your family veterinarian can also help you understand your pet’s current health status and prepare for any issues in the future.

All pets are old

There’s a common misconception that shelter pets are usually very old and are there because they have aged. They don’t have enough life left, so why take them as pets when you know they won’t be able to survive long. However, it’s not usually age that causes cats and dogs to be placed in a shelter. But it’s a set of particular circumstances.

For instance, the former owner might have passed away, they might have experienced a natural disaster or setback, or there might have been a change in their financial circumstances. Since there are no particular reasons, a pet of any age or breed can end up in the shelter.

Depending on the shelter you may easily find a pet of your desired age in the shelter. It will not be a bad idea, even if you opt for adopting an older dog or cat. Older pets can form deep connections with you. They appreciate the love you give them after bringing them home. Another benefit of bringing older pets is that they have a calmer temperament. They are more relaxed and less curious, like puppies, kittens, or other pets. Hence, there are also perks of bringing older animals.

Shelter pets have something wrong with them

This is far from the truth. Most animals arrive into the shelter because of certain circumstances that aren’t in their control. Often, no health or behavior concern is involved, which leads them to shelters. In fact, many pets end up in shelter houses due to housing restrictions in many areas. Also, not all animals are rescued from the streets. Some owners themselves come to leave their pets in shelters. They do this for a variety of reasons including their poor financial condition, lack of resources, ability to care for the pet, or family issues.

Most pets in shelters have health problems

This is one of the most common myths that rescued animals have some health issues. A veterinarian thoroughly examines many shelter animals upon arrival. Furthermore, animals usually stay with the shelter for observation before becoming eligible for adoption. Apparent medical issues are treated before a pet goes home, and chronic conditions that require long-term management are disclosed to potential adopters. This helps to make sure that all pets find the right home for their needs.

These four-legged animals are safe to keep at home, and if you experience any problems, some shelters even offer guidance and support even after you take the pet with you.

5 reasons to adopt a dog, cat, or other animals from a shelter

They will feel good

Bringing them home can make them feel good and bring them happiness, just as it will you. They will get a home like any other pet and have an opportunity to live a beautiful life with you.

They are often ready for residency

Since the shelter house team keeps an eye on every animal and observes each pet closely, they can share insights about whether the pet is trained or not. They can also tell you if the pet seems to have house training. With this information, it will be easier for you to know how much you have to train your dog or cat and how they seem to do with learning new things.

They are more affordable

These animals are usually neutered or spayed and typically have a rabies shot and core vaccinations. Keep in mind that these procedures are not cheap and require your time and energy. Some treatments, like spaying, require you to take extra care of the pet, which you might not have been able to invest in.

You also usually need to take your new puppy or kitten for a healthcare examination to ensure they are healthy. In case of shelter pets, you don’t have to go through these things, but many shelters may insist upon a visit to the family vet within specific days of adoption. Although, sometimes, these exams are offered at a discounted rate.

They can help you save other pets

Adopting a shelter cat or dog allows you to make space in shelter homes for other pets to be rescued. While it’s impossible that all the animals can get home and protection, you can at least try to save one animal from living a poor life on the roads. With your support, rescuers can save as many animals as possible and give them temporary safe heaven. So, if you love animals and have a loving heart for them, you should search for “animal shelters near me” or “cats or dogs for adopt near me” on Google and make the world a better place to live.

In a nutshell, all the myths and misconceptions you have heard about rescued animals might not be correct. They are as good pets as any other animal you can find. These pets offer you great time and entertainment and act as the best companion for pet owners. So, don’t wait and find a pet of your own today!