Oxfordshire Branch

The importance of acting quickly when rehoming a pet

Little Baxter the baby beagle was bought in December as a gift for an elderly mum, from her thoughtful adult children. Mum had been feeling a bit lonely and it was thought that the vitality from a pup in her life would cheer mum up and give her some pleasure.

However, mum hadn't the energy to take care of a young, lively pup. It transpired that the grandchildren were nervous of Baxter because he was still young and as puppies do, liked to jump up at them.

Sadly, the family weren’t in a position to take over training and caring for Baxter and consequently, he moved into the conservatory for much of the time. Baxter became lonely and began to bark in the early mornings which drew complaints from neighbours. Fortunately, the owners knew the right thing to do and quickly acted in offering him to us so that we could find him a home where he would be wanted and have the attention he so clearly needed. He was only in that situation for a matter of days.

As you read, Baxter is residing in a lovely foster home and is really making progress in his training. Once his vaccinations and neutering are done, he'll be ready to join a new family of his own, one that can offer him a forever home and can give him the love and attention he needs.

Making the difficult decision to give up a pet

We want to stress that Baxter’s first owners weren't bad people, in fact they wanted to help their mum, and did exactly the right thing in handing him over to us as soon as they realised they couldn't give him the attention he needed.

Acting quickly in situations like this means that Baxter was able to join a foster carer before his personality became shaped by lacking the things he needed beyond food, shelter and medical attention.

All puppies, and any young animal for that matter, crave love, companionship and play, which can take a lot of time and effort. Baxter was well cared for, but sadly was purchased without full consideration of mum’s condition and just how much a puppy can drain your energy.

This is why the RSPCA doesn’t encourage giving pets as surprise gifts. Of course, a very loving and generous gift can still be made when you choose the right pet for the circumstances, talk through the responsibilities and requirements of the pet with the current owner, breeder or rescue centre and have provisions in place for secondary care. Should anything happen that means the primary carer needs a little extra help such as holidays, or illness it is important to have a plan in place.

Ask for help without judgement

If you find yourself in a difficult position with a pet and feel you can no longer offer the time and attention they need, please don’t hesitate to contact us for help. We understand life can change, situations can become overwhelming, and we only want to help. We are not here to judge, but to help you make the best decision for the animal.

Please get in touch on 07887 475401 if you need help rehoming a pet. We’re here for you.