Surrey council’s decision to ban the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores means many animals already in shelters will have a better chance of finding a home.
The Surrey Animal Resource Centre in Cloverdale typically handles more than 2,000 animals each year, and there are always homeless cats, dogs and rabbits in need of a home.
READ ALSO: Surrey council approves ban on retail sale of dogs, cats and rabbits
Of the 70 rabbits taken in by the animal shelter last year, only three were reunited with owners. Considering Easter is a couple of weeks away, a time when many people suddenly get the urge to get a bunny for their kids, if you absolutely need a rabbit why not adopt one from the shelter? But think carefully on it, as many of these bunnies bought on a whim likely land in said shelter after the novelty wears off.
In this disposable society of ours, though it’s stating the obvious to note these little animals are not like styrofoam cups or sandwich wrappers to be discarded, some people treat them as such. They are living creatures, totally dependent on their owners and must be cared for and loved. If you can’t do that, do the right thing and don’t get one.
This move by council, approved Monday, will not take effect until June 1, to give pet stores owners some time to adapt. This is the correct thing to do, as these merchants and their employees have to make a living, too.
The bottom line: If you need a pet dog, cat or rabbit, a visit to the animal shelter, or a reputable breeder, is your best bet.
Now-Leader
edit@surreynowleader.com
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