There are times when we find ourselves looking to fill our lives with a furry friend, desiring to provide a better option for another living being, and doing something we can be proud of. This is when we turn to rescuing a pet that has fallen on hard times.
Let’s consider our options and discuss this moment that can lead to 10 years plus of responsibility. Let me begin by saying both Dr. Owens and I tip our hats to those who are willing to take responsibility for another life and welcome a pet into their lives. We just want to make sure you have a deeper understanding of what it means to rescue right.
Institutional rescues are organizations, many national, such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Operating shelters across the United States, these organizations work to rescue animals from abuse, neglect, and natural disasters. They also provide resources for pet adoption, spaying/neutering, and animal welfare education. Best Friends Animal Society operates the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the United States, while PetSmart Charities works to find lifelong, loving homes for all pets by supporting adoption and spay/neuter programs, as well as providing emergency relief during natural disasters.
However, some charities have been put under a spotlight. For example, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), not to be confused with your local Humane Society, does not operate a single shelter in the United States. They have also been exposed for allocating less than half a percent of their operating budget to hands-on pet shelters. On the other hand, there are smaller local charities that are well-organized, operate primarily with volunteers, and provide amazing services to the community through their care of pets.
Individual rescues are equally important. These are occasions when individuals find a hurt or abandoned pet. These acts of kindness are commendable, but one must clearly understand that they are taking on the responsibility of a living animal. When not organized or shared with others, this responsibility can become quite costly, and you can quickly find your hands full with the care needed for the rescued pet. Always consider your financial resources, time, space, and your personal ability to provide aid.
Dr. Owens likes to ensure that anyone considering the adoption of a pet keeps in mind potential health issues, dental issues, allergies, underlying diseases, structural defects, as well as social issues. These social issues can manifest in many ways, including but not limited to biting, barking, highly destructive behavior, and high anxiety. Sometimes, social issues may actually stem from a medical condition.
Both Dr. Owens and I have adopted pets. We are reluctant to call them rescues, even though they were. We feel more comfortable with the term “adopted pet” since once we invited them into our family, they were simply our pets. Dr. Owens adopted Que back in 2008, and I adopted my pit Lucy back in 2014.
Speaking to veterinarians, the question has come up about why people like to introduce their pets as rescues even after extended periods of time that the pet has been an integral part of their family. There is no clear answer as to why this is the case. Is it an attempt to qualify the level of responsibility they are willing to take for the pet? Do they expect some type of financial relief from the inevitable bill or justification if they choose to decline medical service due to cost? We are still looking for an answer.
"Many pet owners refer to their pets as "rescues" even years after the adoption (3+ years). However, they often fail to improve the pet’s conditions, leaving them in the same state they were rescued from. The moral here is that if we choose to rescue, we must commit fully. The quality of the pet’s life hinges on addressing and alleviating their pain points post-rescue." DR. Joe J. Owens, III
We would love to see a picture of your rescue and hear your story!
Please share with us at reception@butilovemypet.com
Ronnie F. Lee (a.k.a. Unc)
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