Pet selection research is promoted

by Hailey Trealout

For a study called Reasons for Companion Animal Guardianship, 237 participants were asked why they decided to get a pet. Almost 40 per cent made loneliness the number one reason.

The survey was separated by gender showing that out of the participants, more women stated that they bought their pet to avoid loneliness. More men reported to buy a pet to help keep them active, raising the question of how to find the right animal to fill the void.

One of the prime places for animal adoption is the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society where Rachel Dottermann works as the shelter operations manager. The shelter has a website complete with photos and biographies of their adoptable animals. Dottermann said first time owners should look for a pet that best fits their personality and lifestyle.

“All animals are different and will have different needs. At the Humane Society we have a great adoption program called Meet Your Match.  It is scientifically based and was created by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals,” said Dotterman. “The idea is we do behaviour and personality assessments and make recommendations on the type of home/lifestyle they would suit. We always encourage all family members to meet the animal before adopting.”

The biggest decision for first time pet owners often includes allergies which play an important factor in some people’s lifestyles. Lisa Nelson bought her now eight year old Shih Tzu, Buddy, from a private breeder in Essex County. Nelson wanted to get a dog for her son but her severe allergy to dogs made it difficult for her to find the right breed for her family. Her research brought her to a website listing hypoallergenic dogs.

“If you have allergies to a dog, you need to go see an allergist and make sure that is the allergy you have and I’d advise that even if it is an hypoallergenic dog, that you make sure you can handle that pet in your house before you buy it,” said Nelson. “Have them in your home for a few days and see if your allergy can handle it. If you can’t handle it, then go to an allergist and ask about allergy shots before you get the dog in the house.”

Heather Bailey, the owner of BillyBob, an eight-year-old Boston Terrier, and groomer at The Dogs House, said first-time pet owners should research every aspect of the pet they plan to get and where they should get it.

“One of the best places to get a dog is the Humane Society,” said Bailey. “When you adopt a dog, in some cases you don’t know any history at all. I was fortunate enough to find out where BillyBob came from, what his history was entirely and some of his health history. You can’t base your choice off of looks. Just because the dog is cute and fluffy doesn’t mean it is right for your family.”