Many of the “unadoptable” animals out there – animals with behavior problems, disabilities, or excess medical needs – often just need to be adopted into the right home that can cater to their specific circumstances.
Common pet disabilities might include blindness, deafness, or loss of a limb. Many dogs and cats are born with such disabilities and can adapt to them with significantly less trouble than a human might. Here are some tips for adopting a pet with such a disability:
- For blind pets, keep furniture in the same place at all times, and pad sharp edges. Additionally, food, water, and toys should be kept in the same place, so your pet can always find what she needs!
- Deaf pets may not respond to your call, but they can read signals like any other animal. You might wish to call your pet by clapping your hands, or using a hand gesture or light.
- If your dog or cat is missing a limb, it’s especially important to ensure that they maintain a healthy weight. Any additional weight has one less limb to bear it, which could cause stress on other limbs.
- A cat with a missing front leg may have trouble jumping from high distances, so make sure surfaces are a safe distance from the floor.
- More severe disabilities and emotional disorders might require a higher level of care.
Ultimately, a disability won’t make your pet less lovable. If you are willing to do the research and create a safe environment, consider adopting a disabled animal!
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