Dr Tammie King, pet behaviourist at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, talks about some of the myths that may be putting people off adoption…
Myth 1: Pets that need to be rehomed are ‘broken’
Be patient. No pet comes as a ready-made perfect companion, regardless of whether you buy or adopt. Adopted animals have often experienced more changes in their lives so can be quite sensitive to disruption. But it’s important that you take time to build a relationship of trust.
Myth 2: Pets are only in a shelter as they weren’t good pets for someone else
Behaviour can be modified. Pets are given up for many reasons, from their owners losing jobs, cost of living, unwanted behaviour, families splitting up, moving abroad, downsizing. As with any new relationship, your adoptive pet may not show their true personality until two or three weeks after you’ve brought them home as it takes them time to settle. Be mindful of this and work with your new adopted pet to bring out their best side.
Myth 3: You don’t know the medical history of pets that need rehoming
Introduce a new diet slowly. Often adopted animals from shelters come with part or full behavioural and medical history. Also, it’s worth carefully considering their diet. It may seem like a little thing, but it can make a big difference to the settling in process after adoption. Ask the shelter what they have been fed previously and if they have any specific dietary requirements.
Myth 4: Pets in shelters are always badly behaved
Be mindful of individuality. Cats and dogs have species-specific needs and their own individual personalities. Be sure that you give your new pet the opportunity to express their natural behaviour. Ways to do this might include giving them mental stimulation through food-dispensing toys, scratching posts and training, and also physical exercise. Shelters are terrific sources of advice on pets’ individual traits.
Myth 5: You don’t know what you are getting with an adopted pet
Establish a routine and ensure they have lots of positive experiences. Where do they eat, sleep, go to the toilet? Be clear and consistent as this helps to set the pet up for success. It’s important to encourage desirable behaviours, for example, toileting in the right place, chewing/scratching appropriate items, and how to interact with people.