Every year thousands of animals are neglected by their owners, left in the middle of nowhere to fend for themselves, abused by being beaten or chained outside with no water or food. They are kept in pens so small they have no room to move around and sleep and walk in their own feces. These animals become shy, afraid, and even aggressive. They are rescued and taken to shelters to receive medical treatment and eventually are evaluated to see if they can be adopted. Sadly, some will not pass the evaluation because of their previous situation, or because they are in such poor health they die.
However, most animals in shelters or that have been rescued, may just need a little tender love and care to completely recover, once they receive any medical care needed. They may just need socialization or time to mature or just time to recover emotionally. Once they have recovered, you may find a pet more devoted and loyal, than a pet that comes from a non-abusive home. Just remember these animals have come from abusive situations and sometimes they will become scared from loud noises or anger in a voice or just a raised hand. Be patient and yes they will need extra attention.
Abused animals can be adopted, but before you make that decision, make sure you have considered all the possibilities. Be honest with yourself and your situation if you are considering adopting a pet from an abusive home. Pets are costly, time consuming and can be destructive if you don’t get them properly trained and remember that doesn’t happen overnight and with abused animals it may take longer than one that hasn’t been abused. It is a life long responsibility to take care of any animal and not something to be taken lightly. Rescue shelters require an adoption application to be completed by the person adopting. It is a requirement that they fully investigate any person or household that is adopting an animal that has been rescued to make sure they are not returning to a similar situation. The rescues must make sure that they are going to good homes where they will be well treated and loved.
Be responsible, don’t just get a pet and expect them to take care of themselves! Get them the proper medical attention, vaccinations and have them neutered or spayed. Make sure they have warm places in the winter, cool places in the summer and a dry place when it is wet. They love you unconditionally, and all they expect in return is a belly rub or a pat on the head. It is little they ask for, but sometimes, it costs them greatly.
Speak Your Mind
You must be logged in to post a comment.