Precaution for pets: expert warns of emergencies and fates!

Precaution for pets: expert warns of emergencies and fates!

In many Saarland households, pets are an integral part of life. Whether dogs, cats, fish or birds – the joy of keeping animals unites us. But what happens to these beloved animals when their owners can no longer care for them for unforeseen reasons, such as a health or even fatal incident? Andrea Bonnstaedter, the head of the Linxbachhof animal shelter, warns of a worrying development: Animals, especially dogs, are increasingly ending up in the animal shelter because their owners have suffered serious blows of fate. Saarbrücker Zeitung reports cases in which animals such as a German Shepherd mix or several cats were left alone for weeks after their owners had died.

The sad reality shows that not only the death of an owner, but also a stay in prison leaves animals without care. The question of the cost of accommodation in an animal shelter often remains unresolved, which in some cases leads to animals remaining in facilities for years until the heirs take care of the matter.

Prevention is better than cure

Bonnstaedter urges pet owners to take responsibility beyond their own death. She gives five important tips for emergency preparedness:

1. Vor der Anschaffung eines Tieres festlegen, wo es im Notfall untergebracht werden kann.
2. Kosten für die Unterbringung im Verhinderungsfall in die Überlegungen einbeziehen.
3. Wichtige Dokumente des Tieres griffbereit halten.
4. Nachbarn informieren, damit diese im Notfall helfen können.
5. Notfallkontakt festlegen und notieren, um die Versorgung des Tieres sicherzustellen.

A look at the legal regulations illustrates the need for sophisticated precautions. According to the Tierschutzbund, the Animal Protection Act in Germany applies to all animals and protects them from avoidable suffering. However, there are regional differences and often unclear regulations, especially when it comes to dealing with found animals and the associated costs. In many municipalities, authorities are obliged to care for injured or homeless animals, but the practical implementation often leaves a lot to be desired, as the reality in animal shelters shows.

An appeal to animal owners

There needs to be more awareness and responsibility when dealing with pets. The examples of animals who were loved passionately and then left behind in suffering should be a wake-up call. Clear legal regulations, such as those called for by the Tierschutzunion, could help to create a uniform practice for the handling of found animals and responsibility for their well-being.

The discussion about animal protection will certainly not stop in the coming weeks. It's time we all take a step back and ask ourselves how we can ensure a comfortable life for our four-legged friends even when we are no longer able to do so ourselves.