Petfinder.com has declared August 12th “Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet Day”. For all the overlooked pets in shelters, this day’s for you!
What constitutes a “less-adoptable” pet? Petfinder asked their member shelters which pets were the hardest to place.
- 30% of responders had the hardest time finding homes for senior pets
- 15% of shelters had a difficult time adopting out pets with health issues
- 13% of Petfinder shelters had problems with breed prejudices (and many shelters mentioned pit bulls specifically as being hard to adopt because of breed prejudice)
- 10% of responders had difficulty placing pets who need to be the only pet in a home
What do you think? Would you (or have you) open your home and your heart to a less-adoptable pet?
My first dog, Miko, was seven years old when I brought him home. I didn’t think I was doing anything special at the time — he was the one who picked me out. Because of his age, we only had a few years together, but I wouldn’t trade them for the world. He came to me fully housebroken and knowing a number of tricks, making him the easiest dog I’ve ever shared a home with.
What about pets with health or behavioral issues? I’ve got one of those, too — Moose was surrendered to the shelter thanks to behavioral issues. His former owners said he was “too stubborn” to be trained. It’s been a challenge to keep him in line sometimes, but I don’t regret having him. Working with health and behavioral issues can be costly — vet visits, treatment, and medication OR quality time with a good trainer — but our furry friends are worth every penny and pay us back in unconditional love and devotion. And many pets with health problems can live long and happy lives with medication!
As for breed prejudice, that may be the hardest obstacle to overcome. Some dogs have reputations as fighters when they really just want to be lovers. Keep in mind that many shelters screen pets for temperament and don’t try to adopt out animals that are dangerous.
Opening your home to a “less-adoptable” pet can be a challenging, rewarding experience. Think about it… not just for August 12th but for the next time you’re looking to add a four-legged family member.