Pocatello Animal Shelter sees return of animals after holidays
After the holidays, many animal shelters tend to see an increase in the number of adopted pets being returned to the shelter.
The Pocatello Animal Shelter said it sees the same trend. While it hasn’t necessarily gotten more returned this year than last so far, it has had some of its adopted pets come back.
“The biggest reason for that is that people buy pets for their loved ones on a whim,” said Danielle Garcia, interim director of the Pocatello Animal Shelter. “They think a puppy or a kitten or a dog would be a good present for someone but they haven’t really thought it through. So they don’t spend enough time making sure that the animal is the perfect fit for their family.”
This year, so far, the shelter has had 10 animals returned. Between Dec. 15 and Feb. 1 of 2017, the shelter had a total of 24 animals returned.
Garcia said it’s for a variety reasons, some behavioral problems, some just not a good fit, some not ready for a pet, others because they decided to move. She said it varies from year to year, but often the shelter sees more dogs come back than cats because dogs are more work and take a greater responsibility.
Garcia said what she recommends if people are looking to give a pet for a gift, is that they get a gift card for adoption instead. That way, after the holidays, or whatever occasion, the person can pick out the pet themselves. That way, they can get the best fit for them. And if it’s more than one person, they can all have a say in selecting the pet.
“The one thing I recommend, is that anytime you’re going to come in to look for a pet, bring the whole family,” Garcia added about adopting a pet. “Make sure that the animal fits with the entire family, it fits with your lifestyle.”
Garcia said it’s important to remember that adopting a pet is lifetime commitment and it’s important to be 100% sure.
The Pocatello Animal Shelter has lots of cats and dogs available for adoption and in need of a good home. If interested in adopting, call the shelter at 208-234-6156 or stop by and check them out at 3100 Avenue of the Chiefs.
