The top myths about rescue pets are that they will have behavioural problems, medical issues – and can be hard to train. A poll of 2,000 adults found three in 10 believe vet bills will be expensive and 53% think you need to be ‘qualified’ to welcome a new pet into your home. Others worry animals from a shelter will be misbehaved and 31% reckon it will be tricky to teach them basic commands and routines.
However, the survey went on to find 52% didn’t even know fostering for short periods of time was an option – and 39% thought adoption was the only route to help pets in need. Only 6% of those polled have ever fostered a furry friend, but of those who did, almost all of them had a positive experience. And half believe fostering a pet is just as rewarding as adopting.
The findings were commissioned by Lottoland.co.uk which has partnered with the Blue Cross to raise money through their charity scratchcard.
A spokesperson from the Blue Cross said: “It’s entirely natural for people to have questions about fostering or rehoming an animal, especially with so many widespread myths.
“There are thousands of animals patiently waiting for a second chance, pets who, through no fault of their own, need a safe, loving forever home.
“They may have come into our care after the death of their owner or a relationship breakdown for example. Their owner may have had to make the heartbreaking decision to rehome their beloved pet due to the cost of living.
“Every pet and their needs are different, so we don’t have fixed rules about the perfect home, providing training support and we cover all associated costs for each foster pet.”
Nearly half (46%) were happy to give their temporary pet a safe and loving home and four in 10 felt good helping an animal in need. 35% even saw their pet grow in confidence under their care.
Almost eight in ten (79%) said they feel a strong emotional response when thinking about animals in a shelter without a permanent home.
However, 48% would be unlikely to take in an animal for a short period of time, with the main concern being becoming too attached (30%).
The Blue Cross spokesperson added: “Fostering is an incredible way to give pets the love, care and stability they need while they wait for their forever family.
“Opening your home to a homeless pet is not only easier than many people think, it can also be one of the most rewarding and life-changing things you’ll ever do. These animals have so much love to give. All they need is a chance.
“The research shows fears of becoming too attached means that some people would not take in an animal for a short period of time but, for many, the experience is incredibly rewarding and they are delighted when the pet finds their forever home.
“And if you do fall head over heels and decide you’d like to make your foster pet part of your family, we’ll be right there to support you every step of the way.”
TOP 10 THINGS PEOPLE BELIEVE ABOUT RESCUE ANIMALS:
- They will have some behavioural issues
- They often have unknown medical issues
- Vet bills would be high
- It will take a lot of time and effort
- They would be hard to train
- They would not get on with other animals
- They would not get on well with children
- Training would be expensive
- Prospective owners would need to be fully qualified in dog training
- They would be jealous of other pets