By VANESSA VALENZUELA
RESIDENTS are being urged to think twice before buying a pet this Christmas, with hundreds of unwanted animals dumped at welfare shelters in Melbourne’s west every year.
During the holiday period the RSPCA anticipates more than 13,500 animals will wind up at animal shelters across Victoria, placing pressure on staff as they attempt to re-home every forgotten pet.
RSPCA Victoria spokesperson Tim Pilgrim said many shelters see an influx of animals during the holiday period.
“Many of these animals are surrendered to us as they are unwanted or ill-thought through Christmas presents,” he said.
“Unfortunately some members of the community are impulse purchasing animals from pet stores or online without giving careful consideration to what a responsible pet owner is.”
Mr Pilgrim said the festive season can be a great time to introduce a new pet into the home, but stressed that pets should never be given as a surprise gift.
“In the months following Christmas we also see an increase in the number of pets bought as Christmas presents enter our care,” he said.
“This tends to be when their impulse purchase has grown out of the cute puppy or kitten stage, and the reality sets in that to take care of an animal is a very long term commitment.”
Western Suburbs Cat and Kitten Rescue Inc President Nathan Miles said hundreds of unwanted animals are found wandering the streets of Sunshine, St Albans and Melton each year.
He believes people who want to welcome a pet into their household this holiday season should considering adopting an animal from a shelter.
“If people adopt a pet they aren’t supporting dodgy breeders or puppy and kitten farms that are inherently cruel. But when you adopt, you’re saving a life,” he said.
Mr Miles said the rescue group had recently taken in 19 kittens that they hope will find loving homes before the New Year.
For more information about adopting a pet visit www.moggies.com.au/western-suburbs-cat-and-kitten-rescue-inc
