“Unfortunately, it is still common practice for animals to be given as gifts,” says Nora Sudra from the animal shelter in Linz. Every year many dogs, cats, but also small animals and exotic animals end up under the Christmas tree. It is not uncommon for it to turn out after the holidays that the animal actually has no place or the new owners have no time. Many of these animals end up in animal shelters, which are already bursting at the seams. That is why Sudra appeals to the population to think carefully about getting an animal and not to act out of euphoria. “Sentient beings should not be gifts,” says Sudra. Instead, she advises giving away a voucher for the purchase price or accessories for an animal.
animal companions
In this way, the recipient can decide for himself or herself about the choice of the future animal “life partner”. “Do I really want to walk my dog three times a day, whatever the weather, for the next 15 years?” In addition to the lack of space and time, the costs should not be underestimated. Often the vet bills far exceed the purchase. In order to be able to reflect on the decision, interested parties have to come to the shelter several times before they can take an animal with them.
Animals for pastime
Even outside of Christmas, the consequences of ill-considered animal purchases have shaped the work of the animal shelter in the past year. “As soon as the lockdowns were over, people gave away more animals,” says Sudra. Many dogs acquired during the pandemic would not have learned to stay alone because of the home office. They were bought to pass the time or out of desperation. There is now a waiting list for dogs at the shelter. “We can no longer accept everyone,” says Sudra. That’s why you try to support people with a private agency. Overcrowding is not entirely new, but it is unusual for it to be as long and intense as it is now.
It was also a challenging year in other respects. So far in 2022, the animal shelter has been able to give away 68 dogs, 507 cats, two small rodents, 117 rabbits and guinea pigs, 70 birds and 59 exotic animals, including spiders and scorpions. A green iguana lady and several agate snails are currently waiting for a new home.
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