Help! I need to rehome my pet!

PetRescue is all about helping shelters find animals new homes and educating the community about the great (and not so great!) aspects of pet ownership.

We're often approached by people looking to rehome their own pets, and while we don't have a facility for private listings, the following pages are an effort to help people seriously considering the process make the best decisions for their pet.

First and foremost what anyone thinking about giving up a pet should consider is that this pet is your responsibility. Even if you can't keep him anymore, your pet still depends on you to do what's best for his future. It'll take time, effort, patience and persistence to find him the right home. With over 200,000 cute, smart and trained pets killed each year in Australia because a home can't be found for them, making your pet stand out from the crowd isn't going to be easy.

So, do you really have to give up your pet?

Be honest with yourself as to whether you are giving up your pet because you have to, or because you want to. Most problems with behaviour or circumstance can be overcome, so you should be able to keep your pet if you put in a little effort.

Common Reasons for Surrendering a Pet

Moving House

Rental houses that allow pets are available if you give yourself enough time and work to find them - most people give up too easily. Widening your search can also help, it may mean a longer drive to work, but you'll be able to keep your furry family member!

Searching for pet-friendly rental accommodation? Try Pet Friendly Rentals.

Prepare a complete record on your pet's medical history, obedience school certificates and references from neighbours, previous landlords and veterinarians. Offer to sign an agreement to define appropriate behaviour for your pet on the rental premises. Encourage the owner/landlord to meet your well behaved, well groomed flea-free pet to demonstrate his/her good behaviour.

Not Enough Time

"We don't have enough time for the dog."

Pets require time and effort, but probably not as much as you think. Dogs require only minimum exercise, food and most importantly time just being near you.

Dog walking services are relatively inexpensive, or better yet get some exercise yourself by getting out and about with your pet.

Both cats and dogs can benefit from environmental enrichment. A bit of time each day spent making their lives more interesting could make a big difference to their behaviour.

Having a Baby

If introduced correctly, there shouldn't be any problems with your pet and the baby. Some resources on bringing a baby into your home can be found here.

Allergies

There are things you can do and some wonderful products on the market which can aid in keeping you and your pet happy, healthy, and allergy free. Ask your local vet to show you what they keep in stock.

People live with allergies to pretty much everything and remedies are available for almost all of them, including your dog or cat.

Giving your pet up for adoption could be a last option, not a physician's first. In selecting an allergist, especially if you already have a pet, look for a physician who will be sensitive to your feelings and do everything possible, within reason, to help you keep your pet.

Behaviour Problems

If your pet is badly behaved, what makes you think anyone else is going to want to take it on?

Most pet behaviour problems are not only common, but manageable with the right support. Before you rehome your pet, try some training and speak to a behaviourist or trainer - it's the least you can do.

• Common dog problems
• Common cat problems
• Find a behavioural trainer

Always be totally upfront with potential adopters about behavioural problems. Anything less can leave you open to legal prosecution.

Aggression (in dogs)

If your dog has shown displays of aggression or the behaviours leading to future aggression, you are putting others at risk. No matter how much you love your dog, if he has ever bitten anyone you need to take him to a professional trainer for assessment and to get a realistic view of rehabilitation.

Never place them as a 'guard dog', as they may be neglected, abused or used for dog fighting. As hard as it is, putting a dangerous dog to sleep is often the safest and most responsible thing to do.

Continue to page 2 of this article - The Realities of Shelters and Rescue