Adopt Don’t Shop
Why You Should Adopt
If you have ever spoken to a cat or dog owner before, you'll know that they all deeply believe their pets to be the most beautiful...and rightly so! The essence of true beauty in our furry friends extends far beyond their physical appearance. It's rooted in the love and bond we share with them. This connection remains strong even as pets age, facing changes and challenges similar to our own, from health issues to the natural aging process. Embracing a pet means committing to a journey of care, love, and responsibility that spans years, highlighting the importance of considering these factors when deciding to bring a pet into your life.
Unfortunately, many individuals are initially drawn to the aesthetic appeal of certain pure breeds, captivated by their outward appearance alone. This means that these people often buy animals simply for aesthetic reasons, not considering the responsibilities and challenges that come with pet ownership and encouraging breeding practices that prioritize looks over health and welfare. Many of these animals end up on the streets.
In places like Dubai, the streets tell a story of countless purebred animals, such as Scottish Folds, British Shorthairs, Bengals, and Maine Coons, facing harsh realities. Dog shelters are full of Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds that were bred and sold, and then abandoned once people realized how much work it takes to look after them. These beautiful creatures struggle to adapt to the wild, especially in extreme conditions like the Dubai heat, which can be fatal for those with long or thick fur. This situation underscores a critical point: the streets, and shelters worldwide, are home to many purebred animals in desperate need of a loving home.
Choosing to adopt instead of buying is a great way to help combat animal homelessness and save lives. It reduces incentives for breeders, so fewer dogs end up on the streets. Adoption gives a chance to an animal that would otherwise spend its whole life in a shelter and opens up space in the shelters to take in more animals off the streets.
If the idea of adopting a pet still doesn't appeal to you, consider the possibility of adding a rescued animal to your family as a companion for your purebred pet. It's a powerful way to make a positive impact and set an example for others. However, if your heart is set on a purebred pet, it's crucial to conduct thorough research on the breeder. Ensure the kennel is registered, and the animals are treated with care and respect. It's essential to support ethical breeding practices that prioritize animal welfare and contribute positively to the breed's future. Owning a kennel or choosing to breed animals carries significant responsibility. Before purchasing a pet, reflect on whether the addition truly benefits the breed or only contributes to the growing number of animals in need of homes.
Remember!
Pseudo-breeders, unauthorized to breed, exploit trends to sell purebred dogs or cats. To them, animals are just a tool to make money, and as a result, the welfare of the animals they breed is very often not a priority
It's illegal to sell animals from an unregistered kennel. You can anonymously report such actions to a local foundation, which will assist or take necessary steps on your behalf.
If you're interested in purebred dogs, many are abandoned in the streets and shelters. You can adopt one even from thousands of kilometers away; I've personally facilitated the adoption of many cats from Dubai to homes in the UK. Please consider this option before purchasing an animal.
Fostering
If adoption isn't possible for you, consider becoming a foster family. This role is invaluable, providing crucial support in socializing animals and preparing them for their forever homes. It greatly benefits overcrowded shelters and offers a chance for you to grow as a caregiver, potentially leading to a decision to adopt in the future.
Circumstances vary—perhaps you're facing a move, uncertain pet policies, or financial instability, making it unclear if you can manage the long-term costs of pet ownership. In such cases, fostering is an ideal solution.
I have two friends in Dubai who fostered dogs from the Stray Dog Center until these pets found permanent homes. One of them ended up adopting, while the other is now caring for a second foster dog. This cycle of fostering and adoption enables rescue organizations to sustain their operations, making room for more animals in need. These groups often host Adoption Days, events designed to showcase dogs to potential adopters, thereby opening up more spaces in foster care or shelters for other dogs in need. Volunteers and foster families bring dogs to these events, hoping to secure forever homes, which in turn allows for another dog to be fostered or cared for in daycare.
This continuous flow of fostering and adoption is essential for the survival and effectiveness of rescue organizations.
International Adoption
If you're dedicated to helping an animal find a loving home abroad, your commitment can bridge continents and cultures. Here's a small guide to navigating this rewarding journey:
1. Connect on social media:
Look for Facebook groups or online forums that specialize in international animal adoptions or local groups in your country focused on animal adoption. These communities can offer invaluable advice, support, and visibility for your cause.
2. Create a detailed advertisement:
When posting about the animal, include as many details as possible. Discuss the animal's personality, such as its sociability, any known health issues, its history, and any unique traits. Honesty is key, as it ensures the prospective adopter is fully informed and prepared to provide the best home.
3. Engage with potential adopters:
- Initial Screening: Respond to interested parties with preliminary questions to gauge their suitability and motivation. This can include their experience with animals, living conditions, and why they're interested in adoption.
- Virtual Meetings: Arrange a video call to introduce the animal to the potential adopter. This is also an opportunity to see their living environment and discuss in more depth their experience, expectations, and any concerns. Clarify all costs related to the adoption, including who will bear the expenses of transportation, insurance, and any other associated fees.
4. Finalize the adoption:
- Document Preparation: Once a suitable home is identified, prepare all necessary health documents for the animal. This includes vaccination records, any medical treatments, and a health certificate from a veterinarian.
- Choosing a Relocation Service: Contact a reputable animal relocation service. Some companies, especially in cities like Dubai, offer specialized rates for rescuing and relocating animals. Ensure the company is experienced in international pet relocations and inquire about their procedures, costs, and the welfare measures they take during transportation.
5. Additional Tips:
- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the import regulations and quarantine requirements of the adopter's country. This can vary significantly and affect the adoption process.
- Post-Adoption Support: Offer to remain in contact with the new owner to provide support and advice as the animal adjusts to its new home. This can help ease the transition for both the pet and the adopter.
By following these steps, you not only increase the chances of finding a loving home for the animal abroad but also ensure a responsible and smooth transition. Your role is crucial in making a positive difference in the lives of these animals and their new families.
Beginnings can be challenging...
Owning a pet is a life-long commitment.
If you are not ready for it, consider fostering. And before welcoming a new pet, remember to visit the vet to ensure it's healthy, disease-free, dewormed, and vaccinated.