Whether you’ve always had a pet in your life, or you’re a first-time owner, choosing to adopt a dog offers countless rewards––here we list just some of them
With many of us spending more time at home and working remotely this year due to Covid-19, dog adoptions in the city have been on the rise in Hong Kong and globally.
While we’re 100 per cent behind this rise in adoptions, charities are also stressing the importance of realising that a dog is for life, and not just for a pandemic––urging people to take into account the realities of dog ownership once life returns to “normal”.
If you do feel like you’re ready to take a leap into the world of dog parenting, we’re listing just a few of the many reasons why adopting a dog is so rewarding. From helping with mental health and providing companionship, to the life-changing impact it has on the dog’s life, here’s why you should adopt and not shop, plus the animal charities to support in Hong Kong.
See also: 6 Luxury Pet-Friendly Hotels For Your Next Hong Kong Staycation
You’ll be helping more than just one animal
Not to sound too cheesy, but by adopting a dog, you’ll be making a real difference––not only to that one animal––but to the countless others that are currently being looked after by the city’s numerous animal shelters and charities.
Unfortunately, in Hong Kong there are still many pet shops that promote cute puppies in their windows for passers-by to purchase. According to the SPCA, an AFCD report found that more than 600 puppies are being sold in pet shops in Hong Kong every month. Contrastingly, the SPCA Hong Kong––one of the largest animal charities in the city––has reported that it helps to re-home about 700 dogs every year, all of which have either been surrendered by their owners, rescued by members of the public, or taken from neglectful situations.
Similarly, Hong Kong Dog Rescue has cared for and re-homed more than 9,500 dogs since it was founded in 2003. The charity is largely funded by private donations, sales of merchandises and fundraising events. As a no-kill animal shelter, the majority of the dogs are rescued from Hong Kong Government’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD)––who have been either rescued or abandoned––or are ex-breeding dogs.
Adopting obviously changes the life of your chosen dog, but through the adoption donation fee and by supporting these organisations, you’re helping to spread the word of #adoptdontshop and offering vital monetary support.