By MEGAN OGLE
Christmas is nearly here with only one week left before Santa begins his journey from the North Pole to Noosa but this year Santa is being warned to think twice before leaving pets as presents.
The warning comes as the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge Society (SCARS) launched its Dog Foster and Feline Foster Families Program last month.
The program, which aims to increase the number of foster homes for surrendered and abandoned cats and dogs on the Sunshine Coast, is a first for SCARS which until now relied on its volunteer base to foster the animals.
Sunshine Coast councillor Jenny McKay joined SCARS at the program’s launch and said the number of animals being received by SCARS is a major concern which has resulted in a high demand for foster families.
“For SCARS to be in this position now, even before the summer period begins when there is generally an increase of surrendered, dumped and roaming cats and dogs, is a major concern,” Cr McKay said.
Councillor McKay warns of the issues which can arise from gifting pets this Christmas and urges people to consider fostering a pet instead.
“Giving pets as a surprise Christmas gift can sometimes backfire as people are not aware of what it takes to be a pet owner.
“Perhaps giving foster care a go will give people an insight into having a pet whilst receiving support of SCARS to help settle them in,” Cr McKay said.
Christmas can be a good time for families to welcome a new furry member to the brood but head behavioural trainer for Kat’s 4 Dogs Katrina Boyd warns it is not a decision to take lightly and many factors need to be considered.
“It is important that you pick the right dog for you and your family.
“Do some research into what breed suits your environment and family set-up.
“In saying that, there is work in every dog no matter the breed,” Ms Boyd said.
Ms Boyd also said rescuing a shelter dog is a great option but it’s important for people to ensure that they are the right person for the dog.
“Unfortunately, physically removing a dog from the pound or shelter isn’t enough.
“If you truly want to rescue a shelter dog, it’s critical to the dog that you rescue the mind, too.”
Local resident Deanna Turner has been fostering dogs since early this year and said it is rewarding experience.
“Being involved in the rescue can be very sad. But it’s also one of the best decisions I have made.
“Every dog that comes through our home has a different personality and becomes part of our family.
“We find it very rewarding to open our homes to these babies, and help them find their happy ever after,” Deanna Turner said.
Anyone who would like to become a foster parent to a cat or dog can contact SCARS at www.sippycreek.com.au.
