In the week following ACT’s snap lockdown on 12 August, the local RSPCA shelter temporarily closed its doors to take a moment to stop, reassess, and prepare for becoming an essential service.
“The animals can’t look after themselves,” said Chief Executive Officer of RSPCA ACT, Michelle Robertson. “Every day since then, we’ve been rolling with the punches.”
On 23 August, they re-opened their doors to the pet adoption boom sweeping the country.
“In the three weeks we’ve operated in lockdown, we adopted out 100 animals,” Ms Robertson said.
“I want to say thank you to the community for working with us and staying open-minded. Thanks to that, the adoptions have been 90 per cent contactless, with all the prep work being done over the phone.”
RSPCA ACT has maintained their rigorous background checks to ensure every adoption is well matched, even when facing the flood of 500-plus applications since lockdown began.
“If you are considering adopting a pet in lockdown, keep in mind that it’s not a quick process. Also, while it is a great time to establish a bond and settle in your new pet, be mindful that you will need to work out a plan to transition when you go back to work,” she said.
“A sudden change from being with your pet 24/7, to not being there, can lead to negative behaviours and even separation anxiety, especially if you are adopting from a shelter.
“Shelter animals require time to decompress and settle in. They are not going to be the best versions of themselves immediately. They may be frightened, or timid. They might not be as playful. Above all, they need time.”
Ms Roberson said she’s very comfortable with the adoptions done via RSPCA.
“We’ve had applications where somebody expressed interest in a particular animal, and after speaking with them, we’ve gone as far as to say ‘This animal is not the right animal for you. What about this one?’ and they ended up adopting the animal that was a better fit for them.
“However, there are so many other places that people can get pets from. I worry about potential pet owners buying an animal out of impulse. We saw that last year when COVID first emerged. If you get a pet, it’s for the duration of their lives and must be treated as such. It’s a commitment. Please put time and effort into your thinking,” she said.
“If you’re feeling lonely and can’t commit to the life of an animal, consider becoming a volunteer. Be a foster carer. There are options that don’t involve long-term responsibilities.”
If you are set on adopting a pet during lockdown, Ms Robertson’s foremost advice is to “adopt, don’t shop” and to steer clear of illegitimate pathways.
“Don’t support backyard breeders. When you adopt from us, you’re getting an animal that’s desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, not to mention you’re not just saving one animal, you’re helping us help others,” she said.
“Anytime can be a good time to adopt. Birthdays, Christmas, lockdown, if you are doing it for the right reasons. As long as you can care for the animal in the way it deserves to be cared for.”
Isabelle, an older dog that had been in RSPCA’s care for 254 days, met her match in the first week of the pet adoption boom.
“She’s lovely but had particular needs. She didn’t get along with the other dogs and had a knack for escaping, but she loved her humans. We needed to find someone who could look after her.”
On Monday 23 August, amidst general concern over lockdown being extended, Isabelle finally went to her new home.
To safely adopt or foster a pet during lockdown, visit RSPCA ACT, ARF, or Domestic Animal Services.
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