Adopting an animal is good for your health.

They may not seem like it, but whoever adopts animals is benefiting mentally and physically. An animal can increase the self-esteem and safety of the adopter, which brings a direct benefit to a mental health. Dogs are able to lower anxiety levels and sedentary lifestyles of their owners. Healthy living for both. Having an animal rejuvenates a person within 10 years, says the University of St Andrews in Scotland. The study, published in the journal “Preventive Medicine,” brought together 547 people. The result was that hunting dogs are more likely to engage in physical activity than other dogs.

In Dublin, you can find NGOs that house dogs and cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. One is the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA).

Taking a puppy from the DSPCA, you need to fill out a form, only then can you choose the animal. But, think hard before you make that decision. In addition to such a liability, there are expenses. To have a dog in Ireland a license is needed. It is mandatory and those who do not have the document, can be fined. The price of the license with validity of 1 year is 20 euros. and should be renewed every 12 months. There is an option for the whole life of your pet. In this case, it is 140 euros that you will spend. Puppies under four months old are exempt from fees, even when separated from their mother. The procedure for adopting cats is very similar. There is a difference in the amount of the applied rate, which in this case corresponds to 80 euros. You can see more details on how it works on the DSPCA website.

Licenses can be requested on the internet or at any post office. You must be 16 years old to apply for a permit.

Just last year, 2,025 dogs were rehomed in 2018 by the NGO Dogs Trust. In addition, another 119,844 dogs were castrated since 2006 and 7,354 dogs were microchipped in 2018. And, for NGOs to continue with this work, they need our help with donations.

How much does it cost to care for an animal?

According to the NGO Confidence Dogs, to get an animal in Ireland can generate expenses of up to €1500 per year. In addition to expenses with food, spending with veterinarian and vaccines when they are young. Having a cat can cost around the same amount. The price for consultations in a veterinary office is also the same, 40 euros. The vaccines have lower prices around 40 to 50 euros each dose.

By Rodrigo Valadares