Page 14 - Jennifer Mooney
P. 14
RESEARCH Chapter 2: Research
Literature Review & Analysis
Motivations Barriers
Motivations for adopting pets include companionship, saving a life, and adding to Factors that would deter adopting a specific pet include family dynamic concerns,
the family. such as not being good with kids, and behavioural issues.
Post-Adoption Experience
When asked about perceptions of shelters and their animals, responses were
Reasons to Return a Pet
50/50 with positive and negative views. Most respondents adopted their pets from
Most respondents would not return a pet under any circumstances, but almost
the NWSPCA, for reasons such as having a good reputation, proximity, availability,
30% stated that behaviour issues would be the primary reason for surrendering
and is well known by local communities. Regarding post-adoption support services,
their pets to a shelter. When asked what kind of support services are important
most stated they got no support, while some stated they received a check-up
for new pet owners, the majority responded with training being the priority,
phone or a home visit but no support services. The majority responded with
followed by having a trusted vet and good knowledge of the breed they own.
having no challenges with their pets other than house-training tasks and are very
satisfied with their decision to adopt. Respondents had an overall ‘above average’
experience during the adoption process and would mostly adopt again in the future.
The impact their new pet has had on their lives is hugely positive and has majorly
benefited their lives overall. Advice to potential pet adopters include doing research
about the breed and its needs, have patience, house-train as early as possible, and
be fully ready before deciding to take in a pet. Over half of all respondents believe
there is not enough awareness and support regarding animal adoption and that better
advertising, animal training, and media attention would encourage more people to
adopt. Suggestions for organisations to improve their services also included more
advertising and social media engagement, as well as more funding, aftercare,
health care leaflets, detailed stories about the animals, and more active volunteers.
