Vets discuss animal neglect—when pets suffer due to ignorance

Vets discuss animal neglect—when pets suffer due to ignorance

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

As a current issue requiring addressing, animal neglect is often brushed off, dismissively with a “well, at least it has a home” answer. Fortunately, thanks to television reality shows, social media and streaming services, people are wising up to their pet’s diverse needs. 

Like humans, pets have requirements extending far beyond food and shelter. These, often decades-long companions, are more than a mere guard dog or intense feline dwelling in your yard. This means current and potential pet owners need to arm themselves with knowledge on their four-legged family members before they lose their minds. 

Dr Ron’s Animal Hospital and Emergency highlights the various signs of a neglected dog. 

  • Your pet always seems lethargic and tired.
  • Your dog may seem sad and depressed.
  • They are hurt emotionally; this can be seen in your dog becoming destructive, chewing on shoes and other items around the home.
  • Physically, your dog might not look good. This can be seen in their weight, where they are too thin or even overweight.

Pointing out further behavioural problems, Dr Jason Blick and Dr Jacqui Burdon of Newcastle Veterinarian Clinic state a dog’s personality changes, seeing them becoming aggressive and nervous.

But what classifies as animal neglect? This is when a pet is either shown little to no love or affection from their human companions, left alone all day, no grooming, an incorrect diet, and a general lack of understanding of the said pet’s needs and requirements.

Wag Walking adds that while all dogs need daily exercise, the amount they need depends on the breed, their size, and their age. “For example, low-energy dogs such as American Bulldogs only need a casual walk around the neighbourhood each day to fill their exercise quota. Active pups like Siberian Huskies need 2-3 30-minute walks a day to keep them stimulated.”

While providing daily affection, exercise, and freedom of movement, Dr Blick stresses another form of neglect is not vaccinating or sterilising your dogs.

He elaborates, “Not vaccinating your pet exposes them to rabies, parvovirus and distemper, which is a big problem. Most people only take their pets for the first two shots but don’t continue. For me, this is also a form of neglect.”

He continues by saying that this is due to the diseases mentioned above wreaking havoc on animals’ lives and overall health. Despite the ill-effects diseases can have on animals, Dr Blick explains, people often shy away from spending money at vets.

Before adopting or acquiring a pet, it is essential to learn as much as possible. For example, dog lovers can visit the following sites:

Alternatively, Dr Blick and Dr Burdon state Newcastillians can visit their local veterinarian and learn their pet’s dietary, exercise, and medical requirements. 

What are your thoughts on animal neglect? Do you know of people neglecting their furry family members?

Share your views in the comment section below.

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