By ALESHA CAPONE
IF YOU want to bring some puppy love or kitten cuddles into your life, why not adopt a pet from an animal shelter or rescue?
Residents across the West have been encouraged to find their new best friend from places like the RSPCA, the Lort Smith Animal Hospital or the Lost Dogs’ Home in North Melbourne.
The Brimbank Pet Neighbourhood Watch Action Group spokeswoman Liliana Iuri said it was a good idea to adopt animals from shelters or rescue groups.
Ms Iuri said some pet shops sourced their animals from puppy farms, which sometimes kept animals in cruel conditions, such as overcrowded cages.
“Some get to the pet shop and they have behavioural issues and genetic problems, because they have been inbred,” she said.
“If you buy from a shelter, not only do you give a place to a stray or lost animal, it’s also a chance to get a well-assessed animal.”
St Albans resident Ruth Gatt, her husband – and two youngest daughters, who still live at home – have adopted a one-year-old Jack Russell puppy named Ruby, from the Pets Haven Animal Shelter in Woodend.
Mrs Gatt said before Pets Haven took tiny Ruby in, she was one day away from being euthanised at a council pound, as required by government legislation.
“She was on her eighth day and they were going to put her down, before Pets Haven rescued her,” Mrs Gatt said.
“Then we went to adopt her, fell in love with her and she’s gorgeous.”
Ruby has adapted well to her new residence, becoming friends with the Gatt’s cat Toby.
“Because Ruby is a bit of a puppy, she wants to play with the cat,” Mrs Gatt said.
See www.petshaven.com.au to find out more.
