Surrendering a beloved pet is a reluctant and distressing last resort for many people - but sadly, it still happens all too often. In 2018, RSPCA South Australia accepted a whopping 1,440 animals surrendered to our care.
While many of the reasons for these surrenders were beyond the control of owners, that's an alarming number of furry ones to suddenly find themselves without a home.
Alternatives do exist, so check out our tips on what to do if you find yourself in one of the following situations.
Surrender reason #1: Changes to accommodation – 16.9%
This was the top reason South Aussies surrendered their pets in 2018, representing 16.9% (244) of all animals surrendered to RSPCA SA.
Keeping a pet while renting can certainly be difficult. However - don't give up hope! You might find that landlords and real estate agents are open to negotiate about allowing animals if you approach them directly.
Here's what you could do:
- Offer to sign an agreement or pay a deposit and encourage the landlord to meet your well-behaved, well-groomed, and flea-free pet.
- Keeping a "pet-resume" could also be your key to success! Maintain a veterinary history, up-to-date vaccination certificates and a behaviour profile for your pet. This can then be handed to prospective landlords during your application process.
