Animal welfare can sometimes be surrounded by misconceptions that lead to confusion about how best to care for pets or understand how shelters work. In this article, we’ll address some of the most common myths and clarify the reality behind them.
Myth: Humane Societies Are Associated with Each Other, Government-Funded, and/or Can Take in Any Animal
Reality: Many people assume that all humane societies are government-funded or part of a larger national organization, but this is often not the case. For example, our organization operates independently, solely relying on community donations.
Additionally, humane societies like ours are often unable to accept stray animals due to regulations from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. All stray animals must first be reported to the animal control facility in the county in which the animal was found. This gives owners a singular location to check for their lost pets.
Myth: A Dog’s Behavior in the Shelter Always Reflects Its True Personality
Reality: The shelter environment can be overwhelming for dogs, leading to behaviors that might not represent their true nature. Factors like noise, unfamiliar surroundings, and the presence of other animals can cause dogs to feel stressed, which may manifest as anxiety, shyness, or even overexcitement. Once in a calm and stable home, many dogs show different traits, becoming more relaxed and affectionate. This is why it’s important not to judge a dog solely based on its shelter behavior.
*This is also why we offer a Foster First option when considering adoption! By choosing to foster first, you give a pet the chance to acclimate to the home before finalizing the adoption.
Myth: Indoor Cats Don’t Need Vaccines or Flea Prevention
Reality: Even cats that live entirely indoors can benefit from vaccinations and flea prevention. Although they may not be exposed to other animals directly, viruses and parasites can still enter the home on shoes, clothing, or through open windows. Diseases like rabies, distemper, and feline leukemia can be prevented with vaccines, and fleas can be an issue even for indoor cats, especially if there are other pets in the home.
Myth: A Dog’s Breed Determines Its Behavior
Reality: While breed can give some general insights into a dog’s temperament or energy level, it’s not a definitive predictor of behavior. Many factors, including upbringing, environment, and individual personality, play a significant role in how a dog behaves. Two dogs of the same breed can have completely different personalities, so it’s essential to evaluate dogs on an individual basis rather than relying solely on breed stereotypes.
