Over the past few weeks RCHS has experienced a noticeable increase in phone calls from people looking to rehome their pets of many years. It seems to me this happens when spring is coming and people are more active again. I can’t help but feel very sad that trusting pets who have shared their owners’ lives for years now suddenly appear to be in the way of more worthwhile pursuits.

Undoubtedly, these pets have brought smiles to their humans’ faces, and have quietly been there through good times and bad. Maybe tears of despair have fallen on soft fur and these animals have given their owners comfort by discreetly listening to all their woes and worries. Perhaps these pets were even referred to as “our kids,”and friends were told that they “understand everything I say." And now they have to go.

I am more than reluctant to anthropomorphize (ascribing human attributes to animals), because I think it places unrealistic expectations on pets. We pet owners have to clearly understand that a dog or a cat will always be dependent on us. Unlike children, they do not grow up to eventually lead their own lives separate from us. This means that taking on a pet is a responsibility that should last for the lifetime of the pet.

I wish we humans were more comfortable seeing them for what they are and not what we would like them to be. To me they are precious animals that have needs we humans must attend to because we chose to take them into our homes and lives. One of these needs is an owner who will work through rough times and not abandon their pet. At least, don’t say “my dog/cat will be happier in a different home because…….” How can we know that? We can’t even know what another human being is feeling or thinking unless they tell us. And isn’t it really the human who will be happier not having responsibility for the animal anymore?

Moving, traveling and unrealistic expectations of a pet’s behavior were found to be leading reasons why animals are surrendered to humane societies or other rescue organizations. What can I say about these reasons? They all seem valid. Yet how are we to find a good home for a surrendered pet where people do not want to travel, will not move, don’t own other pets or have babies on the way, or do have the patience and affection to deal with problem behaviors?

That’s why I want to encourage everyone to think very carefully before getting a pet. Please do not take in a kitten or puppy just because they’re cute or because you feel sorry for them. They grow up all too fast and you’ll be faced with the responsibility of caring for this pet for the next 10-14 years.

Dagmar has been volunteering for RCHS for ten years, and acts as our Dog Coordinator. She also answers our phone and returns your call when you want to surrender your pet.

(c) 2003 RCHS