Why people give up their pets
Veterinarian speaks about the abandoned animal crisis and hopes to raise awareness of the increasing problem.
With animal rescue centres and shelters currently under strain, it is evident the town is facing a pet abandonment crisis.
Painting a heartbreaking picture is Dr Lottie Carr at the Homestead Veterinary Hospital.
According to Carr, the matter of abandoned animals is becoming more common.
She stated that many pets are abandoned due to weak ownership and a lack of responsibility. However, she mentioned that financial matters also play a role. Carr stated that individuals who are more financially stable, tend not to abandon their pets whereas individuals who struggle to make ends meet cannot take care of the animals, leaving them behind as a result.
Carr further explained that she receives about four to five abandoned animals each week adding almost 100% of these animals are cross-breed dogs. Carr believes that these dogs are more likely to be abandoned due to their unappealing appearance or their uncontrolled behaviour.
• Also read: Animal shelters facing a crisis
“People are quick to judge a registered dog breeder. However, people who pay R15 000 for a dog are more likely not to abandon the dog in comparison with people who own a cross-breed dog with an uncontrolled behaviour issue,” Carr said.
She added that abandoned animals can suffer mentally as well as physically too.
Physical disadvantages include malnutrition or the wounds and injuries they pick up after being hit by a car. Abandoned animals can also suffer mental health issues. According to Carr, a once-loved and adored pet (who is now on the streets) will experience many stressful episodes and behaviour changes such as extreme aggression. In addition, they can also carry the deadly rabies disease putting humans at risk.
However, Carr is convinced abandonment can be prevented in certain cases.
“If you are leaving your dog alone, book a kennel and do the necessary planning. You could also book a pet sitter. It is also important to microchip your pet,” Carr claimed.
“My heart breaks for these animals. They do not understand why they are alone. It is very distressing for an animal. We have had incidents where we were not able to help the abandoned animals at all,” she concluded.
