Rescue dogs to become part of a modern family

Have your kids flown the coop and now your house is unusually quiet?

Once the novelty of having the house to yourselves wares off the house might feel a little empty. You don’t have to be alone for long, with a new initiative from the Pedigree Adoption Drive Charitable Trust.

The doggone modern family is all about rehoming the thousands of lovable pooches from around New Zealand rescued annually from abuse and neglect. And with empty nesters missing the kids who’ve grown up and out of the family home, rescue dogs are putting their paws up to be matched with a likely couple.

The Pedigree Adoption Drive Charitable Trust campaign has created a website which helps prospective owners match dogs with the physical characteristics of children who have moved out of the family home. From a loud, boisterous boy to a mellow, affectionate girl – there’s a pooch in need to blend with its newfound family.

Cuddles, bonding, love, affection and attention are all the best bits of being a parent – and once these warm fuzzies are no longer readily available, a furry friend can provide the tonic empty nesters need to re-establish their place in the world.

Auckland psychologist Sara Chatwin says the impact of having an empty nest on our mental wellbeing should not be underestimated.

“Having spent much of their life looking after children and caring for them, parents can have a difficult time coming to terms with a house that isn’t so busy and frenetic.

“Suddenly their role as caregiver is significantly diminished and people can struggle with loneliness and depressive symptoms.”

Chatwin says a new pet dog can allow the empty nester to shift the focus off themselves, their issues and feelings of emptiness.

She says choosing a dog that has attributes of a child who has moved out can also have significant benefits.

“I suspect that if a dog embodies characteristics of a family member; long hair, a type of physique, it could really feel like a great fit in the family.

“Often people are looking for a replacement and are attracted to things they’re used to (in regards to looks) or that remind them of certain people,” says Chatwin.

The campaign, which runs for a month, also needs foster parents to help socialise the dogs saved from abusive environments to prepare them for adoption, says van den Hoofdakker.

“For those that can’t commit to taking a dog permanently, helping to socialise the dog through fostering it in a caring home is a key part in preparing it for long term adoption.”

If you would like to adopt a dog or would like to look into fostering one visit the Pedigree Adoption Drive Charitable Trust website here.