THE top myths about rescue pets have been revealed – with many believing they will have behavioural problems, medical issues and will be hard to train.
A poll of 2,000 adults found three in 10 believe vet bills will be expensive and 53 per cent think you need to be ‘qualified’ to welcome a new face into your home.
While 43 per cent worry animals from a shelter will misbehave and 31 per cent reckon it will be tricky to teach them basic commands and routines.
The findings were commissioned by Lottoland which has partnered with the Blue Cross to raise money through their charity scratchcard.
A spokesperson from the Blue Cross said: “It’s entirely natural for people to have questions about fostering or rehoming an animal, especially with so many widespread myths.
“There are thousands of animals patiently waiting for a second chance, pets who, through no fault of their own, need a safe, loving forever home.
“They may have come into our care after the death of their owner or a relationship breakdown for example. Their owner may have had to make the heartbreaking decision to rehome their beloved pet due to the cost of living.
“Every pet and their needs are different, so we don’t have fixed rules about the perfect home, providing training support and we cover all associated costs for each foster pet.”
The survey went on to find 52 per cent didn’t even know fostering for short periods of time was an option – and 39 per cent thought adoption was the only route to help pets in need.
While only six per cent of those polled have ever fostered a furry friend, but of those who did 87 per cent had a positive experience.
Nearly half (46 per cent) were happy to give their temporary pet a safe and loving home and four in 10 felt good helping an animal in need.
While 35 per cent saw it grow in confidence under their care and 33 per cent made lasting memories.
And half (49 per cent) believe fostering a pet is just as rewarding as adopting, according to the OnePoll stats.
Almost eight in ten (79 per cent) said they feel a strong emotional response when thinking about animals in a shelter without a permanent home.
However, 48 per cent would be unlikely to take in an animal for a short period of time, with the main concern being becoming too attached (30 per cent).
These animals have so much love to give. All they need is a chance
Blue Cross spokesperson
The Blue Cross spokesperson added: “Fostering is an incredible way to give pets the love, care and stability they need while they wait for their forever family.
“Opening your home to a homeless pet is not only easier than many people think, it can also be one of the most rewarding and life-changing things you’ll ever do.
Top 10 things people believe about rescuing an animal:
1. They will have some behavioural issues
2. They often have unknown medical issues
3. Vet bills would be high
4. It will take a lot of time and effort
5. They would be hard to train
6. They would not get on with other animals
7. They would not get on well with children
8. Training would be expensive
9. Prospective owners would need to be fully qualified in dog training
10. They would be jealous of other pets
“These animals have so much love to give. All they need is a chance.
“The research shows fears of becoming too attached means that some people would not take in an animal for a short period of time but, for many, the experience is incredibly rewarding and they are delighted when the pet finds their forever home.
“And if you do fall head over heels and decide you’d like to make your foster pet part of your family, we’ll be right there to support you every step of the way.”
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