WITH people spending the majority of their free time at home during lockdown, many have decided to open their hearts and homes to a pet in 2020.
According to data from the RSPCA, interest for adopting pets on their website grew 68% during lockdown (between March 23 and December 31).
Their fostering page also saw a staggering 244 per cent increase in page views- especially when it came to fostering a dog (page views increased by 87%).
Dog Welfare expert, Dr Samantha Gaines said: “Our advice to anyone thinking of getting a dog is to do lots of research and take time to really consider whether you can commit to a dog and the responsibility and costs associated with owning one.
“If you can, then please consider adopting a rescue dog instead of buying a puppy.”
Here are five Cumbrian animals that need a home:
Poppy
RSPCA West Morland, Highgate, Kendal
Poppy is a lovable pooch and can be incredibly affectionate once she gets to know you.
However, the nine-year-old pooch is wary of strangers and dogs she isn’t familiar with.
The shih tzu needs an experienced owner who can take her on plenty of walks, keeping her active and mentally stimulated.
She can be possessive of her owners and guards her belongings and food- she will need n owner who can put her in her place.
Like all shih tzus, Poppy needs to be taken to the groomers frequently. She has also had hip dysplasia and also had some teeth removed- so keep this in consideration before adoption.
View Poppy’s full profile on the RSPCA website.
Pumpkin and Walt
RSPCA West Morland, Highgate, Kendal
A special home is needed for this two cats.
Pumpkin is a two-year-old female and Walt is a one-year-old male.
They are currently carrying a virus after being kept in an overcrowded multi-cat household. As a result, they will need a blood test in a couple of months to check that it is clearing.
They are best suited to a household with no children and it would be ideal if they were the only cats in the house.
Before adoption, they would need to be fostered and kept as house cats until the virus is cleared.
Do you have what it takes to take care of Pumpkin and Walt?
Dougie
Oak Tree Animals Charity, Wetheral, Carlisle
Dougie is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross with a bulldog.
He is described as a “big handsome charmer” with plenty of personality.
The seven-year-old pooch has a lot of love to give once he gets to know you.
He also has a real desire to learn- but his high energy means he can be a bit of a handful at times.
His new owner should have the time and patience to work with Dougie, allowing his confidence and life skills to flourish.
While he is a big softie, Dougie is physically very strong and needs an owner who can keep up with him.
Due to lockdown restrictions, viewings for Dougie are unable to take place until they lift, but the charity are still taking enquiries in the time being.
Ninja and Kitty
Oak Tree Animals Charity, Wetheral, Carlisle
Ninja and Kitty are the newest additions to Oak House Animals Charity.
Kitty is 15 and is described as a bit of an attentions seeker and she loves to sit on you knee while you are trying to get some work done.
Ninja is 11 and is much quieter than Kitty.
Both cats are best suited as indoor cats as they aren’t streetwise enough to be roaming outdoors.
They are best suited to adult only homes but could potentially live with children age 12 and over.
They haven’t been around other animals before, so their next home should be one without pets.
If you do decide to open your heart to these gorgeous cats, they will need a quiet room in the house to relax in while they settle.
Casper
Oak Tree Animals Charity, Wetheral, Carlisle
Casper isn’t your conventional pet- but even horses need to be rehomed.
Casper is a Gelding horse and he is thought to be around 14 years old.
If you have plenty of land and an appropriate shelter for him, then he would make for the perfect companion horse.
He is described as a bit of a “gentle giant” who loves attention and being groomed.
Casper is happy both in a stable and roaming around in the field.
Did you get a pet during lockdown? Tell us about your experience in the comments or email sarah.mcgee@newsquest.co.uk.
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