This is Part 3 in my series on adopting a new animal friend into your life.
It's no surprise pet adoptions have increased since the start of the pandemic. In fact, some shelters have no animals left to adopt! COVID-19 has changed life as we know it. We human beings are living through daily uncertainty regarding our health, the health of our loved ones, not knowing how long this pandemic may last, not knowing what the economic impact may be, and how life will be on the other side of it. The companionship of our animal friends can provide a lifeline during this socially distant time.
This is good news! With people staying at home, there is more time to develop what promises to be a lasting bond between humans and their newly adopted animal companions. At the same time, the higher stress levels we face may prompt us to choose an animal that is not a good fit. We may choose an animal with special needs. I define a special needs pet as an animal that requires support beyond the normal expectations of pet care. A special needs animal may not be able to provide the type of support we seek.
The truth is that we not only choose pets we can care for, but animals that can care for us as well. In general, people look for animals to meet their needs for emotional and physical support, for service, entertainment, show competitions, as co-workers, jogging partners, and trail riding companions. Providing care for an animal that is not able to meet our goals can be a source of stress rather than the anticipated support and happiness that animals often provide
Most humans don't intentionally search for an animal who needs extra care, and for people who find themselves responsible for a pet who requires more than they can give, the first step is to acknowledge this fact. Only in recognizing and letting go of expectations does it become possible to have a better understanding of the particularities and needs of a higher maintenance animal friend.
The next step is to discern what is best. This includes an honest look at the extra time that may be required for training, additional medical expenses regarding a chronic health issue, as well as tolerance and manageability relative to any unwanted behaviors.
I often hear from people who have committed to keeping their special needs animal companions. They share their frustrations, questions, and how these relationships have helped them grow. These clients are often surprised by the capacity of their animals to grow, and in some cases, to heal. Still, others have processed with me the difficult realization of needing to let go of their special needs pets.
I believe that any animal that comes into our lives has something to teach us. There is a lesson with each of these experiences and decisions. In a future blog post, I will share some of these stories, but for now, here is a list of things to consider when adopting:
Whether adopting a rescue animal or purchasing from a breeder, find out as much as you can about your prospective animal companion. It's easy to experience love at first sight, yet the more you know, the better prepared you will be.
Research the breed you are drawn to and find out what its genetic traits are, including what it was originally bred for, common health issues, and grooming needs.
Animals that have been neglected and traumatized have more needs, especially during the first six months to a year of being re-homed.
Animals that were weaned too early often develop behavioral issues that may need to be addressed with professional support. If you are purchasing a pet from a breeder, research the recommended period for weaning and inquire about the breeder's practices.
A pet is a lifelong commitment, and there are many wonderful resources available to support this shared journey. If you find that you have more stress from caring for your pet than you can easily or safely manage, call on the help you need to make a clear decision about the next steps.
Many breeders, shelters, and rescue organizations know that not every adoption will be a good fit. Check in with them about their policies before adopting and whether they will take an animal back into their care, or help you to re-home your pet if the need arises.