Rover’s Kids wish they had a nickel for every time they are asked to take a pet that someone wants to ‘get rid of’—they would be funded for life! The harsh reality in today’s world is very difficult both emotionally and physically for everyone involved. It is hard for owners that cannot keep a pet, it is heartbreakingly hard for rescues that are full and cannot take one more pet, it is hard for the shelters that by law have to take the pet but know the outcome is not going to be a good one. Reality is that everyone needs to have a plan and a backup plan for their pet’s future.
In 20–plus years of experience we have seen just about every scenario. We always, without question, accept our adopted Rover’s Kids home, it is in the contract. We do our very best to accept small pets in the community and if they are healthy and trained there is a possibility of finding a new family. Those that are not adoptable stay as our forever kids. When they stay we need assistance to sustain them until their end of life.
Many owners indicate their adult children will take their pet. This does not always play out well for the pets. The family says yes to comfort the owner but in reality they already have pets or do not want them. They say yes and give false security to the owner then turn the dog over to a shelter or rescue or heaven forbid, place it online for free. The pet is shuffled around until a place is found, all while the pet is grieving the loss of their owner. Many are not versed in animal language and do not listen to the pet and their needs which may include not getting along with other pets, medical needs, or behavioral issues. Some families believe they can make the dog adjust which is not always the case.
The other side of the coin: some owners have been responsible and signed relinquish forms with a rescue or made arrangements in case something happens to them. They know what their pet needs and have chosen where they want their pet to be. This too can be false security if the family takes the pet thinking they know better and will not turn them over to the designated person—so they are living where the owner specifically did not want them to be. Heartbreaking.
Rover’s Rest Stop always puts the pet first, it is all about them. When they stay forever they need the same care and attention as those waiting for forever homes—they need to eat, be groomed, have medical needs attended, exercise and be in the sunshine as well as be held, kissed and talked to. These costs are no different from all the other kids.
Rover’s Kids are grateful for help finding forever families. See you the second Saturday of every month! Cottonwood Room A7. For more information, call 480-600-2828.