Last September, I adopted my cat, Onyx. She was just a month old when I took her in and safe to say it was like taking care of a human baby. Still, I felt fulfilled and happy to have given her a home, possibly saving her from being abandoned in the streets, without having to spend a lot of money at a pet store. I just have to focus on getting food and water for her, as well as her vaccinations.
Joey Mead-King and Heart Evangelista often posts photos of their fur babies with the caption or hashtag, “Adopt, don’t shop.” Camie Juan is also a staunch advocate after recently adopting her cat, Salem. This is common on social media as netizens would post about stray cats or dogs that need a home. While adopting pets is sometimes met with skepticism, mostly out of fear of where the animal came from, it’s still considered a better option than purchasing them.
If you’ve always wanted a pet or want to give a dog/cat a home, we’re giving you a few reasons as to why you should consider adoption. This will also include reminders if you encounter a stray. Keep scrolling to find out more.
How are you helping stray animals?
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) explained that if you buy a pet from a store you’re most likely depriving an animal in the shelter of a good home. They also elaborated that strays will continue to multiply if they’re not neutered. Hence, more puppies and kittens will most likely be abandoned in the streets.
There are also city pounds that “humanely euthanize” dogs that were caught. According to PAWS, they’re usually held from 24 hours to a week. If they’re unclaimed, they might be put down. That’s why you might see posts asking to adopt dogs in specific cities.
Can you take in random dogs or cats you find on the street?
There are probably instances wherein you’re tempted to take home a dog or cat you see on the street. But before you do that, you should make sure that no one owns them. “It depends on the village/street/subdivision [where you found them.] Better ask the guard or someone from the place if the cat/dog has an owner. If none, make sure when you take in the stray animal, you are going to take care of him/her,” CARA Welfare Philippines tells us. “Also check if the stray animals are feral or friendly before adopting them. [You can] ask a licensed veterinarian if you have inquiries about them.”
You can also opt to foster the stray dog or cat until you’ve found a potential owner—make sure to screen them first! CARA also advises to bring the animal/s to non-government organizations that are willing to help.
How to know if a puppy or kitten is abandoned
There are differing opinions on whether you should touch a newborn puppy or kitten that are seemingly abandoned by their moms. Some say that the babies will be rejected if you touch them, while others say it’s a myth. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t scoop them up immediately because their parents might be looking for food or just taking a stroll.
“One important thing to look out for is if they’re not consuming milk from their moms,” CARA explains. “Although, you could adopt a very little cat or dog. Just make sure you wake up every two hours to give them milk because it’s very important.”
What’s the difference between adopting a baby and a senior?
CARA tells us that people often prefer puppies or kittens because they’re easier to train. But, that shouldn’t discourage you from adopting one that’s a bit older. “Rescues are more sensitive, loving, understanding, and protective.” It’s just a matter of finding the one that connects with you the most
Ask yourself: “Am I ready to adopt a pet?”
“Adopting a pet is a big responsibility. Before adopting one, make sure you are up for the task,” says CARA. This means waking up early to train your pet, feeding them at the right time with the right food, and taking them to the vet for check-ups and shots.
It sounds tedious, but as I’ve mentioned above, it’s like taking care of a human baby. You have to really exert an effort for your fur babies. As time goes by, it’s going to be fun to see how your pet will adjust and grow up in your household.
Art by Marian Hukom
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