A young dog who waited more than four months for a home has been returned to RSPCA WA just one day after his adoption — because he only has three legs.
Pixel, who will be celebrating his first birthday next week, came into RSPCA WA's care in November after being hit by a car in Balcatta. His owner made the difficult decision to surrender him as they were unable to afford the vet care required for his injuries.
Despite extensive efforts by RSPCA WA vet staff to save his injured leg, the damage was too severe and Pixel's leg had to be amputated. The brindle mixed breed recovered well and adjusted to life on three legs while waiting patiently for a new home.
This week, that long wait appeared to be over when Pixel was adopted by a family who had spent time at the RSPCA's Malaga shelter getting to know him, including multiple visits and discussions with staff about his care and three-legged mobility.
However, he was returned the following day because of concerns his three-legged status was "cruel", despite being fully recovered and pain-free.
RSPCA WA Shelter Manager Emily Farrell said while every effort is made to prepare and support adopters, returns can sometimes happen for reasons unrelated to an animal's behaviour, health or suitability.
Recent examples include:
• a cat returned for being awake at night and sleeping during the day
• a dog surrendered because his fur didn't match the family's curtains
• a dog returned for being "too big", despite multiple meet-and-greets
"While people's circumstances and feelings can change, it is often the animals who bear the impact," Ms Farrell said. "Pixel did everything right – he was settling in, he was calm, he was starting to feel safe."
"He waited 145 days for a home — I just hope he doesn't have to wait that long again."
Pixel is a gentle, resilient dog who is slowly building confidence and would benefit from a home with older kids and a friendly, confident dog to help show him the ropes in the household. His profile can be found here.
