Why you shouldn’t buy a puppy this Christmas
One letter writer explains why it’s so important to adopt, not shop.
Opinion
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KAREN and I are the custodians of an Old English sheepdog, Ana, now 10 years old. She suffered cancer four years ago. Ana survived because we, and two exceptional vets (one in Toowoomba and one in Brisbane) cared about her wellbeing. Ana has been cancer free for four years now.
Compare this to a recent story in an RSPCA Queensland newsletter entitled, “Animals are for life – This Christmas, no animal should be neglected.”
RSPCA inspector Sam located Penny, an elderly dog, tied up in the backyard, motionless and unable and incapable of moving. Inspector Sam reported:
“I couldn’t believe how underweight Penny was. I could see her heart beating through her skin. I asked the owners how Penny came to be in this state, and they told me they couldn’t see anything wrong with her. It was terrible to see”.
Penny survived after care and rehoming by the RSPCA dedicated staff and volunteers.
The terrible thing, an indictment on human behaviour, is this neglect will happen again, again and again.
The answer is simple – if you don’t care about animal welfare and happiness, do not take on the responsibility as an animal custodian. The commitment is for life – nothing short of the animal’s life is acceptable.
This Christmas, do not buy a cute little puppy without a lifetime commitment to the puppy.
If aware of a dog, cat or any animal suffering, report it. They deserve our help. They do not deserve neglect under any circumstance.
Support the RSPCA with donations if in the position to do so. It is money well spent.
So endeth the lesson.
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