Vet Talk: Why you should consider adopting from an animal shelter for the perfect pet

SINGAPORE – The journey to pet ownership begins with a pivotal question: Where do you find your lifelong companion?

Pet shops, licensed pet breeders and animal shelters each offer different advantages to finding your perfect match.

While pet shops provide variety and pet breeders offer specific breeds, shelters present a meaningful way to welcome a new family member.

From shelter to forever home 

Animal shelters serve as sanctuaries for many pets seeking forever homes.

These facilities provide food, shelter, veterinary care and a temporary home to surrendered or rescued pets.

Beyond care, shelter staff work on behavioural rehabilitation to understand each pet’s unique personality and needs, as well as address medical issues, to prepare it for a new owner.

Each adoption begins with a careful matching process.

Shelter staff conduct screenings to ensure successful matches.

They evaluate your home’s environment, discuss your lifestyle and verify safety measures like window grilles or mesh for high-rise living.

While this process requires more time and patience, it significantly increases the chances of a successful long-term match and safeguards the pet’s welfare.

Advantages of adoption 

Shelter adoption typically offers a comprehensive support system. Shelter staff can provide valuable insights into a pet’s personality, needs and compatibility with different households.

Many shelters also provide post-adoption guidance, tips to owners to help pets adjust to home living and ongoing advice about pet care. This proves valuable for first-time pet owners navigating their new responsibilities.

Adoption fees, which vary by shelter and species, typically cover the costs of essential veterinary services. These include core vaccinations, microchipping, basic health screening and sterilisation. Adoption fees also help to defray the cost of running the shelter. 

Making your choice 

For those looking to adopt dogs and cats, most shelters have a variety of mixed-breed pets, and purebreds are occasionally available.

Mixed-breed pets are often overlooked in favour of purebreds, leading to longer shelter stays. Yet, many of them have grown up in varied environments and, once given stability and care, can become loyal and intelligent companions.

Puppies and kittens generally have more energy and require more time and patience when it comes to training them in basic commands, toileting habits and social behaviours with people and other pets.

In contrast, older pets tend to have more established temperaments and some older dogs may have received training and know some basic commands. While senior pets may have age-related conditions, they still have boundless love to give and make devoted companions.

Beyond dogs and cats, many organisations in Singapore also rescue other animals like hamsters, rabbits and birds. These animals make excellent pets for those living in smaller spaces or housing with pet restrictions.

Pocket pets and smaller birds typically require less space and do not need walks like dogs do, making them ideal for busy professionals and families.

Most shelters maintain active websites and social media pages where you can browse pets available for adoption and learn their stories.

Unlike pets bred for sale, shelter pets often come with histories that make their transformation all the more meaningful.

By offering one a forever home, you provide a stable and loving environment where they can gain confidence, build trust and thrive.

With patience and care, even timid pets can grow into affectionate and loyal companions.

Navigating commercial sources 

For those considering commercial sources, patronise only licensed pet shops or pet breeders that comply with strict welfare regulations. The lists of licensed pet shops and dog and cat breeders in Singapore can be found on the Animal and Veterinary Service’s (AVS) website. 

Pet shops may have limited information about the pet’s early life, personality and genetics. Licensed pet breeders, while usually more expensive, may offer more detailed knowledge of bloodlines, health records and genetic testing results if available.

This information enables owners to identify potential inherited conditions that the pet may be predisposed to, allowing for early intervention, targeted monitoring and making informed decisions on the pet’s long-term care.

Many also specialise in certain breeds and can provide insights into breed-specific health considerations and care requirements.

Patronise only establishments that demonstrate their commitment to animal health and welfare, and maintain transparent and ethical practices.

Check the reviews, arrange to view the parents and breeding area, and have an open discussion with the breeder.

Ask about their breeding methods, the frequency of breeding for each parent and socialisation plans for the puppies and kittens. These conversations will help you to assess whether the breeder genuinely prioritises animal welfare.

Avoid illegal channels, such as sellers on social media platforms or online marketplaces, which do not have an AVS licence number, as their pets may be from unlicensed breeders or smuggled from overseas. These unauthorised sources often disregard proper breeding practices and health protocols, leading to compromised health and animal welfare. 

By going for cheaper alternatives to bypass Singapore’s biosecurity requirements, such as bringing in pets without the necessary vaccination certifications and which have not served quarantine, there is also a risk of unwittingly introducing threats to public health.

The health status of these pets is unknown and they may transmit diseases that can cause serious illness to both local animals and people who come into close contact with them, including pet owners and their families.

Of particular concern is rabies, a fatal disease that poses a serious threat when pets are smuggled in from countries where the disease is still present.

To protect your household and the wider community, choose only licensed and reputable establishments when welcoming a new pet.

Responsible pet ownership 

Whether choosing adoption or purchase, informed decision-making and honest evaluation of your circumstances are essential.

A pet requires lifetime commitment and ongoing expenses for veterinary care, quality nutrition, training, grooming and potential emergency medical costs.

Carefully consider your lifestyle, work schedule, living space and financial capacity before embarking on this rewarding journey.