Adoption Takes a Lifetime - National Humane Education Society

With nearly 8 million dogs and cats entering American shelters each year, it is no wonder that animal advocates are urging members of the public to adopt companion animals. However, it is equally important that potential adopters understand that true animal rescue entails a full commitment to the animal as a permanent family member.

Animals may be surrendered for a myriad of reasons, but shelters often hear the same justifications time and again. Among the most common are, “My new landlord won’t allow pets,” “I don’t have the time or money anymore,” and so on. While these are often described as unforeseeable events, as the quote by John Paulos so poignantly states, “The only certainty in life is uncertainty.” In any life – events such as marriages, births, deaths, relocations, and financial ups and downs will inevitably occur. It is our duty as companion animal owners to plan for our companions before these events take place.

To authentically combat the problem of pet overpopulation, every potential adopter should objectively evaluate not only his or her current, but also future suitability for companion animal ownership. If we cannot dedicate ourselves to provide an animal with a lifelong home, we are not in a position to adopt. Regardless of intentions, people who adopt an animal only to later surrender the animal are not helping to solve the problem of animal homelessness – they are just moving it around.