Responsible Adoption Guide especially in 2020.

The unprecedented conditions we are experiencing in 2020 due to the pandemic and the alternating quarantines have disturbed the daily routine and balance in the lives of all of us. Animal welfare organizations and municipalities report an increasing interest in the adoption of stray animals, especially during lockdown periods, as many express the desire to welcome a new member into their family.
However, this increased demand raises great concern about the consequences that a decision affected by this condition may have for the animal, as life with them should be taken into account when we will soon return to daily life and responsibilities outside the home.
The benefits of living with a pet remain always the same - or even more during difficult times - but we must not forget that the decision to adopt a pet requires care and
inviolable commitment on our part and will accompany us for a long time, even after the quarantine.
Words can not describe the feeling and value of living with this "source" of love, companionship, devotion, and joy, but let us not forget that animals do not perceive the world by our own standards. Especially animals that live on the street or in shelters for long periods of time, although they have an absolute need to find their own home and the love they deserve, they also need time and patience to get to know their new family, adapt to the new “home” life and learn to live harmoniously with us. Let's not forget that dogs and cats are creatures of habit and routine and sudden, big changes cause them intense stress.
If you are truly committed to welcoming a new four-legged member in your home and everyday life and you have been informed about what responsible adoption entails, then all you have to do is contact the animal welfare associations of your area, follow their instructions and get ready to enjoy an exciting journey with the pet you will adopt, full of kisses, cuddles, and love.

Some extra benefits of adopting a stray:

• You offer a better life and the love it deserves to an animal that has gone through hard times.
• Living with pets - especially for children - teaches invaluable lessons of respect, responsibility and mutual care
• You contribute and support animal welfare associations that are dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray animals

Frequently Asked Questions about adopting a stray:

Am I informed about the health of the animal I adopt?

Before adopting an animal from a reputable animal welfare association or your municipality, ask if it has undergone a complete medical checkup if it has been vaccinated and dewormed and if it already has a microchip that will now be registered with you, or if you should schedule its implant with a veterinarian. Likewise, you should also get informed about the sterilization of the animal. Ask about any pre-existing medical condition in order to receive detailed and accurate instructions for its handling.

Is a stray animal, especially an adult or senior, trainable?

YES (regardless of their age). Many of the animals in the shelters are trained by their rescuers to be ready for their new home, some are already trained in basic obedience by a previous guardian and are ready to learn even more and of course, a young puppy has all the potential to learn through training. In any case, training requires patience, positive reinforcement, and large amounts of love.

Can I choose the breed, gender, size, age?

In collaboration with the experienced volunteers of animal welfare associations, you will find the right pet for you based on your lifestyle, the time you can dedicate, the level of familiarity, and all those factors that will ensure your smooth coexistence with the new member, so that both sides can enjoy the most advantages.