Page 16 - Jennifer Mooney

RESEARCH
Literature Review & Analysis
Animal Organisation Survey Results
Organisation's Statistics & Practices
A number of 11 animal organisations across Ireland were contacted to conduct
an interview or complete a survey but unfortunately only one organisation has
completed the survey so far, most did not respond, and few did not have time.
This organisation’s statistics include taking in 426 dogs in 2023 into their shelter,
the most common breed being collies and collie crosses, with an average of
60% of these breeds entering their shelter each year. The return rates for this
organisation are usually between 5-8%, with the main reasons being behavioural
issues, family circumstances, housing situations, and personal health issues.
The main deterrents for adopting a pet include lack of preferred breeds available,
lack of animal care knowledge, the animal’s age (too old or young), personal reasons
(time, finance restraints, etc), and family dynamics (not good with kids or other pets).
Chapter 2: Research
Pet Training at Shelters
The training done when an animal enters the shelter depends on the dog's needs,
common training would include walking on a lead and muzzle training. The most
common behavioural issue in their animals is fear, as moving from a home to a
shelter is very scary. The shelter’s effort to help animals with any behavioural
issues is to make an individual plan for each dog, aligned to its training needs.
A lot of behavioural issues are exacerbated in a kennel environment, so the
priority is always to find them a home quickly. Their adoption process consists
of completing a detailed application form online and a telephone interview,
and if all is well, arrangements are made to meet the animal. The information
provided to adopters depends on what they need, they can provide support
and guidance in general and also recommends trainers and other dog services.
When asked about the average demographics of people who adopt from
their shelters, responses show it is mostly women, aged 36-45. General
concerns for adopting pets are worrying that adult dogs will not settle in to
their new homes. When it comes to the public’s breed preferences, people
look for the cute, teddy-bear, non-shed type dogs that puppy farms provide,
while individuals who adopt are usually more open-minded. Results show
that the main motivations for adopting a pet include companionship, mental
health benefits, motivate a more active lifestyle, playmate for their children,
adding to the family, to save a life, and being against animal breeding.