FROM his kennel at Ballarat’s RSPCA shelter, it is hard to imagine how anyone could let Boof the Staffordshire bull terrier go.
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Despite his tough exterior, the playful dog doesn’t deserve the uncertainty of life in the shelter.
Receiving the best of care from RSPCA handlers, he is one of many animals waiting for a new home this Christmas season.
Boof’s bark and excited energy are waiting to be matched with love and care from a Ballarat family looking for a new pet as the RSPCA again urges Christmas gift-givers to carefully consider the responsibilities and commitment required to be a good pet owner.
Stray animals like Boof are available for adoption from the Ballarat RSPCA shelter, with some put down if homes cannot be found.
RSPCA Victoria animal shelters manager Allie Jalbert said many animals bought as Christmas presents were surrendered before the next festival season.
“Cute puppies and kittens grow up to become mature dogs and cats and can be with you for 15 to 16 years,” Ms Jalbert said.
“The RSPCA all too often sees animals bought on impulse as gifts end up in our shelters, as the person receiving the animal has not been able to make an informed decision about these commitments.”
She said the amount of time needed to train and exercise a dog also needed to be considered.
“Pets also require mental stimulation and a suitable environment must be provided to ensure the animal is happy and healthy.
“The long-term responsibilities for a pet include veterinary care, desexing, microchipping, registration, grooming, annual vaccinations, worming, food, holiday boarding, obedience training, car restraints, bowls, collars and leads.
The estimated cost of keeping a dog is around $1200 to $1500 a year and a cat around $800 to $1100.”
Ms Jalbert said people who go away over the Christmas-New Year period should make proper arrangements for their pets.
“The RSPCA recommends that you take your pets with you while travelling, or alternatively, leave pets in a reputable boarding kennel or have a friend stay in your house to care for them.”
fiona.henderson@fairfaxmedia.com.au