Rescuing Christmas

Considering becoming a pet parent this Christmas season? Pet Insurance Australia takes a look at the joys of rescuing pets. Plus, we catch up with Cathy Beer, pet rescue advocate, founder of Pets4Life and brainchild of the recent Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards to get the rundown on why rescuing is so rewarding.

This is a popular time of year for many pet parents to introduce a new kitten or puppy into their homes. With many taking time off work to celebrate the festive season, it’s the perfect time to be at home to invest in your new pet. With the influx of pets available, many shelter organisations will be hopeful that the increase demand for kittens and puppies means and increase in adoptions.

The fact is, over 230,000 dogs and cats remain unclaimed in Australian animal shelters each year. All of these beautiful animals desperately need a loving home. It’s also good to remember that it’s not just adult pets who are in need of a new home. There are plenty of puppies and kittens being fostered by rescue groups and animal shelters.

Cathy Beer, pet rescue advocate, founder of Pets4Life and brainchild of the recent Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Award, agrees that the rewards of rescuing are immense.

“There are so many benefits,” Cathy smiles. “Adopting or fostering a pet to help the animal or a family who is going through a difficult time by looking after their pet is very rewarding. Pet adoption changes lives for the better, not just for the pet but also in many cases for their humans.”

Cathy is no stranger to the countless number of wonderful stories and breath-taking transformations.

“I can’t count the number of times people have said their rescue pet has rescued them. Get the tissues ready when you read these heart-warming entries about pet adoption for the Advocate® People’s Rescue Story Award 2018.”

With January and Feb being such a popular time to welcome a new pet into your home, now is a great time to contact your local shelter. Take the time to look around and if you are after a specific breed ring around to see if that particular shelter has any available.

“There are thousands of rescue animals out there that would make great pets,” Cathy says. “It’s just a matter of taking the time to find a one that will suit your family.”

Things To Consider
•  Do you have an existing pet? How will your pet get on with the new pet? Gradual introductions between the pets is very important. Your cat won’t like being chased by the new puppy. Fur will be flying!
•  Do you have young children? Supervision between pets and young children is critical to ensure no injuries to your child or the animal.
•  You’ll need to set up your home for a new pet. A new puppy will need ideally a playpen area with enough room for a crate, pee pads, chew toys to keep the pup happily confined at times. Make room for the playpen in your lounge room or an open plan area when the pup can be part of the goings on in your household.
•  If you’re bringing home a kitten or adult cat, create a designated area where your feline friend can relax and feel safe with a scratching post, litter tray, food and water. Create places where your cat can get up high to escape and watch the household activity.
•  Find a good positive dog training puppy school, check it out before your puppy comes home.
•  Do you need to fix your fence before you bring home your curious puppy?

TOP Rehoming Tips – with Cathy Beer
1) Different breeds have different needs, spend the time and effort to find a pet that suits your energy level and lifestyle.
2) Look for temperament when choosing a dog and a cat rather than what the animal looks like.
3) If you’re thinking of getting a puppy or kitten, visit the breeder in person to inspect the breeding environment and meet the pup’s parents.
4) Avoid buying a pet online! You could be scammed or the animal is sourced from an unethical breeder also known as a ‘puppy farm’.
5) Consider a rescue pet from a reputable rescue group or animal shelter, check out https://www.petrescue.com.au/.
6) If you’re not sure if you are ready to adopt a pet, consider fostering an animal in need of a home environment.

We offer award-winning* pet insurance policies to protect your furry friend’s health and wellbeing. Get a quote today and give your pets the care they deserve.