A dog is not just to help you through lockdown

THERE’S a well known phrase often quoted at this time of year, “A dog is for life not just for Christmas”.

The message is intended to deter giving companion animals as gifts.

As a result of the current pandemic the phrase could be, “A dog is for life, not just for lockdown”. Obviously, no companion animal should be used as a “boredom-breaker” or gift.

A letter from the Dogs Trust (“Government must act now to stop cruel trade”, Mailbox, November 28) highlighted that the “demand for dogs has soared during lockdown” and this is fuelling cruel puppy smuggling and puppy farms.

There was also recently an article reporting a boom in kitten buying. (“Lockdown cat-buying ‘cause for concern’”, November 26). Although buying an animal in the current circumstances may result in a longterm successful human/animal relationship, there’s a strong chance that many do not.

These unfortunate animals may end up being handed in to a rescue centre if they’re lucky or, sadly, abandoned.

Choosing a companion animal must be researched and considered carefully.

It is recommended that animals are adopted from a reputable rescue centre such as Leicester’s RSPCA Woodside, where staff have the knowledge and expertise to guide people to the most appropriate animal for their circumstances and lifestyles.

Rescue centres will give accurate and honest information about their animals as their concern is for animal welfare not profit. Nationwide, there are thousands of healthy, very adoptable animals in centres from kittens and puppies to old-timers.

Adopting from these centres helps to alleviate the serious problem of pet over-population.

Please remember, animals have feelings.

While living with a companion animal can bring great joy and be mutually beneficial, caring for another living being must be regarded as long-term as well as a privilege and responsibility.

Elizabeth Allison, Aylestone