People Are Sharing Their Favorite Animal Facts That Never Cease To Amaze Them

Bored Panda got in touch with Nina Thompson, Director of Public Relations for the San Diego Humane Society and she was kind enough to answer some of our questions. After all, the people who care for rescues have to know what they are doing. Firstly, we wanted to hear how they work to educate the public about animals in general. 

“San Diego Humane Society educates the community about animals in so many ways. Just to mention a few: Adoptions counselors have an in-depth conversation with prospective adopters to ensure they can take care of the pet they want to adopt. The Behavior & Training team offers classes for the community and has a free helpline to call.”

“We have our Dr. Seuss Foundation Humane Educator, whose full-time job is to inspire youth throughout San Diego to learn about our connection to animals and to better advocate for them as they develop into the leaders of tomorrow. Our Humane Law Enforcement officers are in the field seven days a week to educate pet owners about keeping their animals safe, healthy, and happy. Our Lost & Found team works to help pet owners search for their lost pets. We have Resource Center community members who can call for guidance and ask questions. We also have an incredible selection of resources on our website.”

 We also wanted to hear what common misconceptions she and others at the San Diego Human society have encountered. “One that comes to mind is that people may think a senior pet (7 years and older) may have a harder time adjusting to a new home. We think the opposite. Adopting a senior pet is oftentimes easier! You can teach an old dog new tricks: Some senior pets are already trained and, even if they’re not — they tend to catch on faster and have an easier time focusing.”

“They adapt faster: Mature animals are likely to settle into a home more easily and quickly than younger pets, often due to past experiences living in houses among people or other pets."

"What you see is what you get: Unlike adopting a puppy or kitten, you already know what a senior animal’s full size, personality and required care will likely be. This makes it easier to pick an animal who is the right fit for you,” she shared with Bored Panda. 

She also gave some pointers on what to consider with an older animal. “A little R&R: These sweet seniors usually have less energy, which makes them great additions to mellow, relaxed households looking for a cozy companion. Unconditional gratitude: A senior pet will bring maturity and wisdom into your home. If you give a senior a chance, they will thank you for the rest of their life!”

Lastly, we wanted to know what she would suggest to people who wanted to help. “The San Diego Humane Society, and shelters across the country, are overcapacity and have been for more than a year — almost two at this point. This is unprecedented. Here are just a few ways the public can help:

Adopt: If you’re thinking about adding a pet to your family, San Diego Humane Society urges you to consider adoption first. By opening your home to a shelter pet, you give a deserving animal a second chance while creating critically needed space for other pets in need. Right now shelters and rescues have more puppies in their care than ever before too, so even if you want a puppy, please choose adoption first.”