Abstract
This essay aims at analyzing the situation of pets after adoption from an NGO in the State of Rio de Janeiro. A sample of 50 pets was selected, and adopters answered a questionnaire whose data was analyzed by using descriptive statistical techniques. In general, adopters were comprised of married women of different ages, with university degree and high income. They were not lead by the pets’ breed and adopted particularly the youngest ones. Adoptions did not take place aiming an interaction between pets and the elderly or children. Adopters already had another pet, and the adopted pets started to live at residential properties. We realized that compassion was the key reason for adoption. Responsible guardianship principles were followed and a high percentage of pets had been neutered. They were feed predominantly with pet food. Good vaccination and frequent deworming practices were in place. As prevailing negative aspects we noticed that animals had free access to the streets, did not receive adequate veterinary care and were not wearing identification tags. Adopters were very attached to their pets. There was a high rate of stay, little difficulty in dealing with the pets and high satisfaction level. This scenario shows us that the adoption strategy has been effective and may bring good results to the control of animal population density, especially if combined with other strategies.
Keywords:
stray animal; adoption; population control
