If recent months in Stafford have meant you put your new pet plans on hold, you may now be starting to put the wheels in motion to extend your family and welcome a new member. Many people Google reputable breeders or consider designer dogs based on celebrity social media profiles, however, considering adopting a rescue animal can be hugely rewarding.<\/p>\n
Animal rescue homes are currently overwhelmed with abandoned animals. The 2020 Covid-19 pandemic left many people unable to look after their pets due to financial constraints from being furloughed or made, or the inability to give them the care and exercise they need due to medical shielding.<\/p>\n
Add to this that many rescue centres, who rely on public charity to cover their running costs, have also seen a huge drop in financial support and it\u2019s clear there is a greater need than ever to consider giving a rescue animal it\u2019s \u2018fur-ever\u2019 home.<\/p>\n
Adopt don\u2019t shop<\/strong><\/p>\n There are thousands of animals around the UK who have been abandoned by their owners for one reason or another. They may have been badly treated or not well looked after and, as a result, not had the happy life that pets deserve. By giving one of these animals a second chance you\u2019re contributing to giving them another, better life.<\/p>\n Things to consider<\/strong><\/p>\n Rescue animals in Stafford may come with a history, so you need to be prepared and able to deal with any issues which will be flagged to you by the animal shelter. Mistreatment may result in a nervous pet who will need lots of love, attention, and reassurance as well as the usual feeding, exercising and comfort elements.<\/p>\n Decide on what type of animal you can offer a good home to, and try to stay focused. If you have children at home and a rescue cat doesn\u2019t get on well with children, for example, you\u2019re not going to be able to change that. Adopting an animal isn\u2019t just about saving them. It\u2019s making sure they\u2019re the right fit for you and your circumstances, and you\u2019re right for them and theirs. If you\u2019re looking for a dog, decide on the size you have space for at home. Don\u2019t plan for a terrier and take home a Great Dane!<\/p>\n Most of all, make sure that \u2013 as far as is humanly possible \u2013 your new pet will be welcomed into your family permanently. Having already gone through losing an owner for whatever reason, it would be heartbreaking for your adopted animal to have to go back into the rehoming process for a second time.<\/p>\n What to expect<\/strong><\/p>\n Animal charities in Stafford will want to know a little bit about your home life, what space you have available and whether you have children or other pets. They may want to visit you at your home to assess the suitability of the space.<\/p>\n Once the process is complete and you\u2019re officially matched, be prepared for some readjustment time. Even though you\u2019ve made your home welcoming, with comfy bedding, toys and good food, your new pet will need some time to get used to their new surroundings. They may be withdrawn, quiet or unresponsive in the early days. Try to reassure them without being overwhelming. Be patient with any toilet mishaps, speak to them with a gentle voice and don\u2019t chastise them. They need to learn to trust you, so early impressions are essential.<\/p>\n Ready to start looking for a rescue pet? <\/strong><\/p>\n There are a number of national charities who have available pets listed on their websites. Also consider local animal rescue centres in your area.<\/p>\n RSPCA \u2013 https:\/\/www.rspca.org.uk\/findapet\/rehomeapet<\/a><\/p>\n Dog\u2019s Trust – https:\/\/www.dogstrust.org.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n