A Moira-based animal rescue has urged the public to think carefully before making a commitment to adopt a pet after one of their dogs was returned to be “swapped”.
It had been an already stressful week on the Grovehill Road at Almost Home Animal Rescue NI.
In just three days they had 36 surrender requests for dogs and 23 for cats.
In an emotional statement to the public they said: “We’ve already taken in 23 new dogs, many in awful condition, plus eight cats/kittens, two rabbits and two guinea pigs. The cold, dark nights make it all feel that bit harder.”
The charity’s trustee and full-time day-to-day manager was able to “sneak away” for a short break with family in the midst of the chaos… only for the hiatus to be sadly cut short.
Explaining, they said: “While away, someone who had adopted one of our dogs decided to bring him back and ‘swap’ him for another. I explained we had no space until Monday and that I was away, but she insisted poor Boss be returned right away.
“So I’ve come back early to sort things out. It’s exhausting, and my heart aches for these little souls who never asked for any of this.”
In a word of advice to those thinking of adopting a pet, they said: “Please, if you’re thinking of adopting — remember, it’s not a trial or a swap.
“It’s a life, and it deserves commitment, patience and love.”
The charity’s primary focus is to find the “right home” for the animals in their care.
With a team of over 200 dedicated volunteers they ensure all animals receive the best care and say, “it’s never a case of sending out just to ‘make space. We will always hold out until we find the family that we feel best match both in needs and personality.
“Sometimes people are offended when we say no; when this happens it’s not because we don’t feel you will be a super adoptive family but perhaps just not right for the animal you’ve applied for.
“It’s our role to ensure that every animal is safe, well cared for both physically and emotionally and finally leaves to become not just almost home but forever home.”
