Last updated: 22 Jul, 2019
Published on: 1 Jan, 2014
Black dog/black cat syndrome - fact or fiction?
With Halloween just around the corner, it’s a good time to get some purrspective on the issue of black dog and cat ‘syndrome’.
Most of us have heard about this ‘syndrome’, and we even see it mentioned in individual pet profiles here on the PetRescue website.
But is there any evidence to prove that black pets really do have a tougher time finding homes?
Reassuringly, nope!
Research shows that there isn’t any reliable evidence to prove that black pets spend longer looking for homes. In fact, in some cases, it was quite the opposite with black dogs being rehomed faster than their fairer fido friends.
The truth about black pets is more likely to be down to numbers. There may simply be a greater proportion of black pets in the pet population, which may skew perceptions.
Sometimes myths can be a bit of fun, but this one just devalues black dogs and cats in the eyes of the adopting public. And that’s the last thing anyone wants.
So let’s focus on sticking to the positives in pet profiles and celebrate the joys of these midnight beauties.
Because classic black is super-stylish, goes with everything, and what prospective cat owner wouldn’t want a mini ninja panther prowling their living room?
Read more about the "Black dog/Cat Syndrome" Myth here, and be sure to check out these great tips from a professional photographer in our article 'Help black pets put their best paw forward with fab photos'.