There wasn’t a youngster in the country in the 1990s who didn’t yearn for their own huge, slobbering Saint Bernard when the movie, “Beethoven” originally came out. It could have been OK if we had allowed it to remain the youthful vision that it was, but it wasn’t long before the lovely animals could be seen panting down the sizzling hot Delhi alleys or the seaside boardwalks in Mumbai. A boom in the economy and the entry of computers in every house only brought these exotic pets closer home. As interest grew, demand started pouring in and with demand grew supply. And it was not long before the pet breeding industry in India became a commercial melting pot of every breed of dog known to mankind.
As one of the fastest-growing pet care markets in the world, India was expected to increase pet sales by an estimated 14% yearly to reach $490 million by 2022. Rising per capita income strengthened people’s capacity for indulging in their “hobbies” and “luxury shopping” leading to rampant pet buying without long term plans when the pandemic added fuel to fire.
More people indulged in impulsive pet purchases to combat despair and loneliness, or to keep kids entertained within the four walls of the house. Most did not consider long term consequences while others simply did not care. It was just a momentary indulgence to be disposed of when it became an inconvenience. So, once the lockdown was lifted, shelters like Friendicoes saw an influx of pet surrenders brought on by impulsive shopping! And then these pets had nowhere to go because normal life had resumed and people no longer had time to commit to pets.
Only if it was a pandemic induced trend! Then maybe there would have been an end somewhere. Unfortunately impulsive pet shopping continues even now and shelters continue to see exotic breeds of dogs “damaged”, “destroyed” and “discarded” when the heart has its fill.
It’s a fairly huge deal when you suddenly find yourself in charge of giving another breathing species the essential surroundings, food, training, and companionship. But a lot of pet owners are completely ill-prepared. Not only does that imply they have no understanding of what they are getting into, but they may also be jeopardizing the long-term health and well-being of the animal they have purchased or brought home.
The heartbreak of animal abandonment
Thousands of animals are left behind by their owners each day all over the world. Pets are either abandoned on the streets, left behind in vacant homes or remote locations, or given to animal shelters. Many people are still uninformed of the serious effects that leaving a pet may have on both the community and the animals involved.
For instance, a pampered, dependent pet who lacks street smartness, finding himself in unknown territory is more likely to get run over, fall prey to predators, starve or fall sick to infections. They eventually get sick, injured and often die if not rescued on time. The animal always suffers the most when abandoned, regardless of the reason.
Money can buy you a good dog, but only love can make him wiggle his tail!
It’s important to realize that you’re not just bringing home a toy to use once and then discard away. Adopting a dog or a cat is similar to adopting a child. You shouldn’t act impulsively, especially if you can’t commit your time and efforts to your fur baby.
Every animal deserves a shot at love, a place to call home, and a snug place to sleep at night. Let’s at least give them a chance!
How can you help?
- The best thing you can do to stop pet overpopulation is to spay and neuter your pet.
- Don’t abandon your pet. Giving up is not an option. Not only is it cruel to abandon your pet, but it’s also against the law! Pets should be given to new homes ONLY if a person’s ever-changing personal circumstances hurt domesticated animals’ welfare.
- If you do need to find a new home for your pet, use your friend & family’s network and social media sites to connect to the right homes. But beware! of the breeders and the conman waiting to grab your pet for nefarious reasons.
- Don’t rush it. Make sure you hand your pet to someone who understands the commitment they are making and will never have to lose the a home again.
Adopting a new pet
- If you’re looking to get a new pet, consider adopting from our adoption center rather than buying one from a breeder or pet store. This means you will save a life , help make space for a new rescue in the shelter and have bought yourself lifelong devotion from a grateful animal.
- When puppies and kittens are young, they may be adorable, but what about when they start to get grey and lose their cuteness? Are you still going to love them the same way, or are you going to give them up to a shelter? Understand the commitment you’re making before you adopt or purchase a pet. A pet is forever!
- If you think owning a pet is beneficial for you and the animal, consider your lifestyle. Decide what kind of pet would suit your lifestyle the best, as opposed to what you want aesthetically.
