Choosing a Pet

This section deals with all the stuff you should bear in mind before taking the plunge...

The animals which come into Battersea have one thing in common: they have all been abandoned. They have lost everything including their trust of us. Giving a home to a rescue animal is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. However, it is important to know and feel that you are ready to take on the commitment of another life, a life that will be totally dependent on you for up to 15 years.

Before you acquire any pet, there are a number of things to consider. Many people give little thought to the most suitable type of dog for them and then have no option but to abandon him at a rescue centre when they are unable to cope. Owning a dog doesn't always come naturally. You must be prepared to dedicate time and patience to training him. Dogs who are untrained or are not mentally stimulated often develop behaviour problems, such as destructiveness or barking when left alone.

If you have children, ensure the dog or cat you choose is well-socialised or has lived with children, and always supervise children around pets.

To find out more, use the navigation above to find out if you are ready and which breed might be for you, and download our 'What to think about before getting a dog' or 'what to think about before getting a cat' factsheets from the leaflets section.