DAERA Minister and the Northern Ireland
Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) are urging the public to
think carefully before getting a pet this Christmas.
With Christmas approaching, DAERA has teamed up with the NICAWG
to appeal to the public to think very carefully before choosing a
pet as a present for a loved one.
Hundreds of animals in Northern Ireland end up in rescue
organisations every year following the festive season, when the
novelty of receiving a pet for Christmas has worn off.
Minister Muir said: “Whilst I know people have good intentions
getting a new pet for Christmas, unfortunately, if careful
consideration has not been given as to the long-term implications
and responsibility of owning a pet, many of these animals end up
in rehoming organisations.
“Advice on how to care for a range of pets is available on NI
Direct and prospective owners should first make themselves aware
of the responsibilities that come with properly caring for an
animal before deciding if they can fulfil its needs."
Minister Muir added: “I would also remind people of the
invaluable work that animal welfare establishments represented in
NICAWG undertake and would ask the public once they have given
careful consideration to owning a pet, to consider adopting from
Animal Welfare and Rehoming organisations rather than going out
to buy a pet. Animal welfare establishments are struggling with
the huge number of unwanted pets which have been surrendered to
the charities, and rehoming means you can play your part in
giving a pet its forever home.”
Nora , Chairperson of NICAWG, stated on
behalf of the Group: “During the festive season, as we plan our
Christmas celebrations and gifts, it can be very tempting to
welcome a pet to your family. Whilst we understand the intent
behind this gesture, we are cautioning that pet ownership is a
big decision and as such, animals should not be given as
surprises or exchanged like a commodity on Christmas Day.
“Pets are a commitment. Often people do not realise how big a
commitment they are. They do not belong under a Christmas tree.
Undoubtedly, pets can have such a wonderful impact on our lives
through much love and companionship. But before any decisions are
made, we are urging the public to give careful consideration to
what responsible pet ownership involves and if they can fulfil
their pet's needs and give them a happy and healthy life.
“Therefore, our advice is wait until after the Christmas holidays
have passed to provide the time and space required to welcome a
new pet into your home. Please do your research in advance, to
fully understand the commitment that is involved. There is
potential with some of our organisations to reserve an animal
before Christmas to be rehomed once all the festivities are over.
Please do not buy a pet for Christmas. Your animal companion's
love is a gift, but it is not just for Christmas. Sadly, every
year, countless animals who were given as presents are abandoned
after the festivities often just a few days into the new year.”
Once careful consideration has been given to owning a pet, NICAWG
and DAERA are encouraging prospective pet owners to adopt rather
than buy as there are thousands of animals in Animal Welfare
charities in desperate need of a second chance.
Notes to editors:
- It is a criminal offence to leave an animal unattended and to
fail to care for it properly. Owners could face prosecution for
abandonment and imprisonment for up to six months, and/or a fine
of up to £5,000. If a pet animal suffers because of abandonment,
then owners could be prosecuted for animal welfare offences and
face even tougher penalties of up to five years in prison.
- More information on how to care for a pet is available
at: NI Direct Animal Welfare and
Pets(external link opens in a new window / tab).
- Under the Paws for Thought campaign, DAERA, councils, PSNI,
HMRC and ferry companies work together to detect, investigate,
and prosecute criminals involved in the illegal breeding and
trafficking of low welfare pups. Prospective owners should ensure
they do not inadvertently support this cruel trade as these
illegally bred pups are kept in abhorrent conditions and suffer
terribly with a range of health conditions. The criminals
involved in breeding these pups in such conditions are only
interested in the profit they can achieve and many of the pups
suffer serious medical complications or even die shortly after
people take ownership of them.
- Anyone who has information on illegal breeding, abandonment
of pets or suffering being caused to pets should contact their
local council animal welfare officer. Contact details on NI
Direct. Animal welfare - local
councils | nidirect(external link opens in a new window /
tab).
- NICAWG was formed in 2019, and its membership comprises of
Assisi Animal Sanctuary, Cats Protection, Causeway Coast Dog
Rescue, Dogs Trust, Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary, PDSA, Rainbow
Rehoming Centre for Rescue Cats and Dogs, Rosie's Trust and
USPCA.
