What is a Small Pet Rescue?

A Small Pet Rescue generally operates the same way a cat or dog rescue operates, but its focus is to find homes for unwanted small animals, including rabbits, gerbils, mice, rats, chinchillas, hamsters, guinea pigs, turtles, reptiles, birds, and sugar gliders. Most Small Pet Rescues cater specifically to these small critters, but some operate as a joint rescue for all types of animals.

Why are Small Pet Rescues necessary?

The answer to that is all too simple and all too sad. Unfortunately, these small animals are often simply seen as "disposable" pets by many owners. Most small animals aren't expensive to obtain, which means that owners usually don't feel financially tied to the animal. They also don't interact with humans on the same level that a dog or cat does, which often means that owners don't become as attached to them. Also, a large number of small animals are abandoned every year because owners didn't fully research the pet and the level of care required before purchasing. It's extremely important that potential owners understand everything about a pet before buying.

Finding a Small Pet Rescue

Small Pet Rescues can often be located through veterinarians, other types of pet rescue organizations, and reputable pet magazines. Rescue workers usually have basic information about the animals they handle, but they won't necessarily be extremely well informed about any one particular species. Be sure to fully research the suitability of an animal before taking it home.