The Pros and Cons of Rescuing an Animal

Everyday, thousands of animals in the UK are rescued and placed into shelters. Sometimes they are strays, unwanted pets, or have been neglected or abused my previous owners. Whatever their circumstances, all animals deserve a loving forever home and many people throughout the UK decide to adopt a pet as opposed to buying a puppy or a kitten.

Like everything in life, there are pros and cons to owning a rescue animal. Whilst there undoubtedly more advantages, potential adopters should be aware of the good, the bag, and the potentially ugly of taking on a rescue animal.

Table of Contents

The Pros of Animal Adoption

Some rescue animals tend to be older, meaning they are completely house trained. This means you will be able to spend more time bonding with your pet instead of trying to litter train them.
Rescuing a dog can improve your health. All breeds need some level of activity per day and it is a chance for you and your family to get outside for some fresh air and fun with your new addition.
You will be giving an animal a home they never thought they would have. Every single pet turned into shelters and rescue centres deserves a happy and loving home. Some have had a terrible start in life and you could make this a distant memory for them.
By adopting an animal, your donation is being spent on caring for other animals that are at the rescue centre. Your money means that the wheel keeps turning and more and more pets are given a second chance.
Rescuing a pet is often cheaper than buying a puppy or a kitten from a breeder. Furthermore, most animals are vaccinated and neutered, so you don’t need to pay for this to be done.
By rescuing a pet, you are taking trade away from potentially unethical breeders. Puppy farms have become a huge problem in recent years and you are taking potential income away from them.

The Cons of Rescuing a Pet

You may have a certain breed in mind, but be prepared to fall in love with something completely different. Whilst rescue centres have many different breeds of many different pets, it is the dogs which are the most noticeable. Be prepared to see many staffys, terriers, greyhounds, lurchers, mixed breeds and older dogs.
Remember, if you want to adopt a dog, you will need to be dedicated to walking your pooch whatever the weather.
Your application to rescue a certain animal may be rejected. This is not a personal attack on you, it just means you cannot provide the animal with the exact home they need. Some animals cannot live with children or cats, whereas others would love that sort of environment! It is all about making sure the home is 100% correct for the animal’s individual needs. Don’t give up, you will find the perfect match.