Adopting from the SPCA does not only save furry friends, it also saves you money

POLOKWANE – Animals adopted from the SPCA are dewormed and inoculated which saves you on some veterinary bills. Add to that the animals are also sterilised which amounts to more than R1 000 per procedure at the vet, depending on the size and gender of the animal and if it is a dog or a cat. The SPCA offers this as part of the adoption procedure to help with population control and to ensure the animals don’t wander off in seek of a mate so they become a nuisance for the neighbours and might end up being abused or killed.

They also microchip the animals or give them a collar with an identity disc to help find the owners when the pets get lost. This is another expense the new pet owners save on.

All of these extras make the ‘exorbitant’ amount of between R450 and R500 paid to the SPCA to adopt a pet no longer seem so bad.

All animals are also treated for external parasites such as fleas before they can go to their new homes and if the newly adopted animal gets sick within the first seven days of adoption, the SPCA will treat the animal at their own cost. This does not, however, cover neglect on the side of the new owners for example leaving the gate open leading the animal to get run over or injured.

SPCA Polokwane Chairperson, Tanya le Roux, said if you take all these things into consideration it is clear adopting a pet from the SPCA is more value for money than getting a pet from ‘backyard’ breeders, flea markets, social media or the internet.

As part of the adoption process the SPCA does a home inspection to make sure the prospective new owners are able to care for their new furry addition to the family. They inspect the home where the new pet will stay to ensure there is adequate space. They also ensure the prospective owners have the time, financial means or level of interest necessary to care for their new pets.

Tanya encouraged everyone to visit the SPCA, located at 46 Landsdale, Roodepoort road outside the city, contact them at (015) 291 1088 or visit their Facebook page to see the animals available for adoption.

Here are some helpful tips when adopting a new animal:

• It does not matter whether you’re adopting an older dog or a puppy, it’s vital to begin to train them as soon as they step foot into their new home. Dogs prefer structure and purpose, and an untrained dog is not just a pain but also an unhappy dog.

• Dogs and cats pick up on your energy and if you are angry, nervous, or stressed out around them, they’re going to know it. It’s important to always be calm when dealing with your new pet, even if they’ve just done something wrong.

• You don’t have to give your dog treats every time they do something good, a nice pat on the head, belly rub and ‘atta boy’ will do just fine. It’s important, however, that you always acknowledge good behaviour, instead of just reacting to bad behavior.

• It is important to know what is in your pet’s food as it is important for them to get the proper nutrients they need to stay healthy. Food that is ideal for your pets and controlling their weight are high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

• Get a scratching post for your cat. Cats naturally love to scratch their claws on rough surfaces and getting a scratching post can save your furniture from being torn apart.

• Clean the litter box regularly. A dirty litter box can spread germs around your home and your cat might even refuse to use it if it’s untidy and start using other places in the home.

“Being a first-time pet owner has its challenges, but you can make things easier on yourself and your pet by learning the proper care methods. Giving your pet enough time and attention will help you avoid certain problems and make your furry friend much happier.

“Remember, getting a pet is a lot like adopting a child, so be prepared to love them through the good times and bad,” Tanya concluded.

riana@nmgroup.co.za