ISPCA National Head of Animal Welfare Denise McCausland said: “Following a surge in rescue operations and a recent intake of over 200 animals from a single property, our Centres are at full capacity. Dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, donkeys, ponies and even some exotic pets are patiently waiting for their chance to find a forever home”.
Denise added: “These rescued animals have survived such mistreatment —some were rescued from the most horrific living conditions imaginable, others removed from neglectful and cruel situations—and now after spending some time in ISPCA care, they just need someone to adopt them. We are appealing to anyone thinking of getting a new pet, to consider giving our rescued animals the second chance, they so deserve.”
The ISPCA is currently caring for 344 animals across our Centres, exceeding our usual capacity and while our dedicated staff and volunteers are working tirelessly to provide care and rehabilitation, the only sustainable solution is permanent rehoming with responsible adopters. We have several other animals that will be completing their rehabilitation programme with us soon and once they have recovered from their neuter/spay procedure, we will be appealing for new homes for them too.
Denise continued: “We would encourage anyone thinking of getting a pet to visit our website rehoming section and browse available pets currently looking for loving homes here: https://ispca.ie/adoptions/. The adoption process is very straightforward; we match individuals and families with pets that best suit their lifestyles, so if you’ve ever thought about adopting a pet, now is a great time. Each adoption not only changes an animal’s life, but it also makes space for the ISPCA to save another.” Your new best friend could be waiting!
Adopting an animal can bring so many positive benefits – here is a few:
Second Chances:
- By adopting a rescued animal, you’re giving them a second chance at a better life, and a chance to experience the comfort, security and love in a forever new home.
Companionship:
- Having a pet can help reduce feelings of loneliness, and studies have shown that spending time with animals can lower blood pressure and reduce stress and anxiety. Caring for a pet can also increase levels of oxytocin (the “feel-good” hormone).
Responsibility
- Adopting a pet requires a commitment to its health and well-being and this responsibility can be a valuable life lesson, especially for children, teaching them compassion and routine care. Pet care requires scheduling (feeding, walks, vet visits), which can help build discipline.
Health Benefits
- Dogs, horses and ponies, particularly encourage physical activity so pet owners tend to be more active, than those without pets.
Increases social interactions
- Pet ownership often leads to meeting new people, whether it’s through walks, pet-related events, it can help you engage with other pet owners.
Adoption Over Purchasing
- ISPCA Rehabilitation Centres have so many adorable animals patiently waiting to be rehomed and not only will you be giving an animal a second chance of a happy home, but your adoption donation will include full vaccinations, parasite treatment, microchipping and spaying/neutering, and some pets are also eligible for 6 week’s free pet insurance. Rescue Centres often struggle with overcrowding and by adopting a pet, it helps combat this issue by giving rescued animals a chance to find a new loving home, which reduces the demand for animals often being bred in poor conditions. You will also receive post-adoption support from the ISPCA, which includes training/behavioural tips and advice.
If you are not in a position to adopt right now, please consider making a life-saving donation to support the animals in our care here: https://ispca.ie/donations/ Thank you.
