Kiddipedia
March is one of my favourite months of the year because it marks the Petstock Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month—a time to celebrate the incredible benefits pets bring to our lives. As a passionate advocate for pet adoption and a pet behaviourist, I love having the opportunity to share why opening your home to a rescue animal can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.
Debunking Pet Adoption Myths
One of the most common concerns I hear from potential adopters is the fear that adopting a pet is like playing “Russian roulette” with behavioural issues. But that simply isn’t the case. Many rescue pets—including dogs, cats, and smaller animals—are already house-trained and have basic manners. Adoption isn’t about starting from scratch; it’s about building on the great qualities these animals already have.
The Benefits of Pet Companionship
The benefits of pet companionship go beyond unconditional love. Pets provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of responsibility. For children, having a pet companion can help them develop essential social and nurturing skills. Pets can encourage kids to spend more time outdoors, playing and walking their furry friends, and can even foster a sense of teamwork within the family as everyone shares caregiving responsibilities.
Research also suggests that children who grow up with pets—particularly dogs—are less likely to develop allergies, asthma, and other immune-related conditions. Early exposure to pet allergens may help train the immune system to respond appropriately, reducing the risk of allergies later in life.
A recent report from Petstock found that 97% of Australians agree pets positively impact their lives, while 95% say pets improve their mental health. The human-animal bond is undeniably powerful, providing emotional support and companionship that can boost overall well-being.
Is Adoption Right for You?
That said, adoption is a long-term commitment, and it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions before bringing a pet home:
- Are you ready for the responsibility?
- Do you have the time, resources, and patience to care for an animal?
Research is crucial to understanding the pet’s needs, temperament, and lifestyle compatibility to ensure a successful match.
I also encourage potential adopters to keep an open mind. The pet you want may not necessarily be the pet you and your family need. Sometimes, the perfect companion is the one you least expect. Take the time to explore different pet types and breeds to find the right fit for your home.
Timing is everything. If you’re not sure you’re ready, that’s okay! The most important thing is that both you and the pet feel comfortable and happy when you bring them home. Waiting until the right moment can make all the difference.
Setting Your Family Up for Success
For families with children, setting clear boundaries is essential. Early interactions should be supervised, and kids should be taught how to treat pets with respect. Rescue animals, in particular, may need an adjustment period, so providing a stable and loving environment is key to helping them thrive.
Adoption centres—like the ones at Petstock—offer invaluable support and guidance. Ask plenty of questions, learn about the pet’s background, and ensure you’re equipped to meet their needs. Caring for a rescue pet is a deeply rewarding experience, teaching children empathy and offering a second chance to an animal in need.
Top Tips for Setting Up Success with Your Pet/Rescue Pet and Children
- Introduce pets to children gradually, ensuring a calm and positive environment to build trust and confidence.
- For rescue pets, patience is key—establish a consistent routine, provide a safe retreat, and allow time for adjustment. The 3 x 3 x 3 rule for rescue pets is a guideline suggesting that the first 3 days are for adjusting to the new environment, the next 3 weeks for building trust and confidence, and the first 3 months for settling in – this is often when the true behaviour of the dog or cat starts to become evident.
- Teach kids how to respect a pet’s space, read their body language, and use gentle handling.
- Ensure your pet has a safe place to retreat to where children must leave them alone.
- With rescue pets, families should prepare for an adjustment period and provide a stable, loving environment to help the pet thrive with routine and positive reinforcement training of boundaries.
Open Your Heart to Adoption
This National Pet Adoption Month, I encourage everyone to consider opening their hearts and homes to a rescue pet. Whether you’re ready to adopt now or simply want to learn more, visiting your local rescue group or adoption centre is a great first step. You never know—you just might meet your perfect match.
Author: Lara Shannon, Petstock Ambassador and Pet Behaviourist
