VET’S VIEW: Just an idea for a new year’s resolution...

If I may make a suggestion, have you considered adopting a rescue pet?

Sure, puppies and kittens may be cute, but older animals need homes, too, with more being overlooked and spending the remainder of their lives in rescue centres. But there are so many reasons to adopt.

First, rescue pets are bargains. Already neutered, chipped, and treated for fleas and worms, thus saving you money. What you see is what you get, as they’re already fully grown, complete with fully developed personalities, making choosing the perfect pet for your lifestyle much easier. Senior rescue pets are content to kick back and relax, unlike youngsters who are always getting up to mischief and require house-training.

Of course, they still need exercise and mental stimulation, but are less likely to run you ragged.

Mature animals just want someone to love and who will love them back.

They’ve most likely been through so much that they make for sincerely grateful companions. Just ask anyone who’s adopted a rescue pet and you are sure to hear glowing recommendations.

Rescue animals are usually already toilet-trained with years of experience under their belt. When you adopt a senior animal, chances are you’re saving its life.

Unfortunately, for rescue animals, most people prefer kittens and puppies.

Young animals are never short of admirers, but for older animals, you might be their last chance of happiness.

Finally, I’m sad to tell you this is my last column in the Herald & Gazette, as I am no longer with Grove Lodge Vets

So, happy Christmas to you all and thanks for reading my column and supporting animal welfare. You can find out what I’m up to by visiting my website, www.marcthevet.com

Keep looking after those animals, folks.