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At Animal Friends we like to hear about pets that have been rescued or adopted. Of course we understand why some owners would like to get their pet from a reputable breeder but when you see the sheer volume of pets waiting for new homes at hundreds of rescue centres around the UK you must agree that it’s nice to give a dog or cat a second chance at happiness.

But what should you look for if you choose to get a rescue pet? Every pet you see at a rescue centre should have been assessed to determine the type of home they will need and what their particular tendencies are – bouncy, quiet, old, young – all will be matched to a particular type of potential owner.

As that potential owner you should choose a companion who will match your particular lifestyle and don’t be overambitious; you may like a Great Dane but he wouldn’t be compatible with a small flat! Though no dog should be left for more than a few hours, an older dog might be slightly more tolerant. Young dogs usually require more attention and a puppy will need constant attention for feeding, toileting and training throughout the day. Remember that a lack of proper exercise can lead to behavioural problems. Larger dogs will not always require more exercise than smaller dogs, but they do need more space and the rescue centre will be able to advise you.

The rescue centre procedure will usually involve a short questionnaire and most will arrange to call on you at home to verify your address and to consider the suitability of your home for the pet you have chosen. They will also take into account who is in your household – children, older relatives, etc.

To help with the costs of running a rescue centre most organisations will ask for a contribution from you of between perhaps £70 and £120 when adopting a pet. This will often include providing an ID chip, inoculation and neutering. It often includes a period of free pet insurance cover although many centres will help with veterinary issues up to a few weeks after adoption.

So if you are considering a pet consider adoption; it is a really worthwhile way to help animals and it will give you a wonderful companion for life. There are hundreds of rescue organisations around the UK from the large RSPCA centres to smaller, often breed specialist places – all the information you could need is on the internet.

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