Animals in need of a new home are often left waiting for new owners because of misconceptions that stop Brits from adopting.
The biggest misconceptions about rescue pets are that they’ll have behavioural issues, health problems, and be difficult to train, according to a new study. A survey of 2,000 adults also revealed three in 10 believe vet costs will be particularly expensive and over half think you need to be ‘qualified’ to bring a new pet home.
Meanwhile 43% worry that animals from a shelter will be badly behaved, as a result, 31% reckon it will be challenging to teach them basic commands and routines. The research was commissioned by Lottoland.co.uk which has teamed up with the Blue Cross to raise funds through their charity scratchcard.
A spokesperson from the Blue Cross said: “It’s entirely natural for people to have questions about fostering or rehoming an animal, especially with so many widespread myths.
“There are thousands of animals patiently waiting for a second chance, pets who, through no fault of their own, need a safe, loving forever home.
“They may have come into our care after the death of their owner or a relationship breakdown for example. Their owner may have had to make the heartbreaking decision to rehome their beloved pet due to the cost of living.
“Every pet and their needs are different, so we don’t have fixed rules about the perfect home, providing training support and we cover all associated costs for each foster pet.”
The study went on to discover 52% didn’t realise fostering for short periods of time was an option, as most were under the impression adoption was the only way to help.
What’s more, only 6% of those polled have ever fostered a furry friend, but of those who did 87% had a positive experience.
Nearly half were delighted to provide their temporary pet with a safe and loving environment whilst four in 10 felt brilliant helping an animal in need. Over a third even witnessed the animal’s confidence flourish under their care.
Almost eight in ten (79%) said they experience a powerful emotional reaction when considering animals in a shelter without a permanent home.
However, 48% would be reluctant to take in an animal for a brief period of time, with the primary worry being becoming too attached.
The Blue Cross spokesperson added: “Fostering is an incredible way to give pets the love, care and stability they need while they wait for their forever family.
“Opening your home to a homeless pet is not only easier than many people think, it can also be one of the most rewarding and life-changing things you’ll ever do. These animals have so much love to give. All they need is a chance.
“The research shows fears of becoming too attached means that some people would not take in an animal for a short period of time but, for many, the experience is incredibly rewarding and they are delighted when the pet finds their forever home.
“And if you do fall head over heels and decide you’d like to make your foster pet part of your family, we’ll be right there to support you every step of the way.”
TOP 10 THINGS PEOPLE BELIEVE ABOUT RESCUE ANIMALS:
- They will have some behavioural issues
- They often have unknown medical issues
- Vet bills would be high
- It will take a lot of time and effort
- They would be hard to train
- They would not get on with other animals
- They would not get on well with children
- Training would be expensive
- Prospective owners would need to be fully qualified in dog training
- They would be jealous of other pets