Eight in 10 Brits who have rescued a pet from a shelter say it is ‘most rewarding’ feeling

Eight in 10 people who have rescued a pet from a shelter say it is the most rewarding thing they have ever done, according to research. A poll of 600 people, who have adopted their furry friend, found 76 percent consider it as valuable as bringing up a child.

Almost six in 10 (59 percent) believe they have “saved its life”, and 30 percent feel fulfilled by bringing the animal into a loving home.

Other key reasons a new pet has brought such satisfaction include witnessing it become happier (63 percent), and also gaining its total trust – after it came from an abusive background (33 percent).

Half of those polled have also loved seeing it become less afraid, and the same amount treasured the experience of watching it understand how to love its new family. Meanwhile, 76 percent said it made them learn to care about someone other than themselves.

The research was commissioned by pet food brand, Purina, whose spokeswoman, Martina McChowat, said: “Pet adoption allows people to make a compassionate choice – however, it should be considered carefully.

“Anyone thinking about adopting a pet should take time to make an informed decision, understand the responsibilities, and sometimes the possible challenges involved, and take care to find the right pet for them.

“It’s amazing to see that so many people feel hugely fulfilled when they have made that choice. Adopting a pet can really feel like you’ve saved a life, as well as enriching your own through the multiple benefits that we know owning a pet can bring.”

The research went on to find that if they were to get another pet, just five percent would buy from a breeder instead of rescuing another pet, due to the positive experience they have had.

Cats, dogs, and rabbits are the animals most likely to be adopted – with a handful having rescued chinchillas, budgies, and snakes.

And almost two-thirds (63 percent) believe that their family unit has become stronger since adopting their pet, according to the statistics compiled by OnePoll.

Martina McChowat added: “The fact people are keen to adopt another pet from a shelter is really heartwarming, because actions like these make a big impact on the animal’s life.”

For those considering pet adoption, Purina has interviewed a pet owner who has recently adopted a dog – you can view the full pet adoption interview here, to gain an insight into the adoption process and the positive impact adoption can have on your life.