Thinking that shelters are only filled with mutts and domestic cats, visitors strolling through The Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County are often surprised when they spot an animal who seems to be “purebred.”
While it’s sometimes assumed that purebred animals acquired from pet stores and breeders always find “forever homes,” the shocking truth is that 25 percent of the dogs and cats in our nation’s animal shelters are considered purebred.
At The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County, we’ve had numbers as high as 40 percent. In the last week alone, we’ve seen Poodles, Havanese, Chihuahuas, Bull Terriers, Shih-Tzus, Dachshunds and more come through our doors.
Some visitors worry that these animals must have some “problem.” After all, why would their previous owners have spent hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars only to surrender such valuable pets? The answers typically have more to do with the owner than the pet and are often similar to those we hear whenever any animal is surrendered: The owner had money to pay for the pet but not enough for the animal’s care, the family didn’t realize the time involved in training and socializing the animal, the family has to move and can’t find pet-friendly housing, or someone has allergies.
If you are seeking a specific breed attributed with certain physical or behavioral characteristics, keep in mind that genetics are only part of the equation. Like humans, animals are unique individuals with distinct physiques and personalities. Not every Siamese cat is vocal, nor is every Golden Retriever social. Rather than going in to an adoption with preconceived notions about how certain breeds might look or behave, consider a pet who’s most suitable for your family. A companion animal who is healthy and with whom you have a bond or connection should be the priority.
We do, however, recognize that some people have their hearts set on adopting particular breeds. In those cases we ask that their first stop be at our Humane Society – or any other local rescue group. We’ll do our best to help match them with a four-footed companion who will mesh with their family, lifestyle and finances. At HSVB & IRC, our counselors are here seven days a week to provide families with honest and thoughtful information about each and every pet so that everyone involved can make a thoughtful decision. With hundreds of animals of every conceivable species, breed, size and personality currently seeking a home right here in our community, we hope adoption will be the option everyone chooses.
Janet Winikoff is Director of Education at the The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River Co. Contact: jwinikoff@hsvb.org
