Is your family on the lookout for a pet? Have the kids been constantly asking for a dog or cat, but you don’t have the space or the money?
Let In The Cove introduce you to ‘Pocket Pets!’
Pocket Pets include ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, and mice and might be the solution to your pet woes.
“They’re small but they’re little bundles of joy,” said Bec Botchtler, Head of Operations at the RSPCA NSW.
These furry friends may be small but have equally as big hearts as cats and dogs, and what is better is they are great for those in smaller dwellings, apartments, and those without a yard.
“Particularly in busy city areas – pocket pets are a lot easier to have in the home,” Botchler said.
Across NSW, there are over 50 pocket pets waiting to find a home.
However, it is important to note that these fuzzballs still need attention and care.
“There is a common misconception that because these animals are small, they are easier to care for, compared to a dog or cat. The reality is that pocket pets are highly intellectual, and often come with complex needs,” Bochtler said.
“They have really unique dietary needs – you know, often people think rabbits only eat lettuce, but they also love their hay.”
What’s great about these dietary needs is that they blend seamlessly into our own, with many pocket pets enjoying similar foods to ours.
“They love your carrots, your celery sticks,” Botchler said.
It’s also important to remember Pocket pets can be nervous about being scooped up or left alone.
“They love to have a companion – so it’s always good to adopt two if you can,” Bochtler said.
Over the past month, select animals have had their adoption fees reduced in hopes they will find loving families to go home to. Approximately 401 animals have been united with their forever families. But many are still patiently waiting.
“If you feel as though your lifestyle is suited to a pocket-sized companion, please consider adopting a smaller pet from RSPCA NSW. There are so many little personalities waiting to meet you.” Bochtler said.
Those wishing to find out more about how to care for pocket pets can visit the RSPCA NSW website. All animals available for adoption from RSPCA NSW can be viewed here.
If you’re unsure if you are ready to commit to adoption, fostering might be a better option.
Becoming an RSPCA NSW foster carer is an incredibly rewarding experience. You can find out more about how you can foster a pocket pet by visiting their website here.
Some Pocket Pets You Can Choose Now
Butterscotch
Howdy humans. My name is Butterscotch, and I am only one year old. I love life at the moment, especially the green grass, the carrot ends, the parsley and other goodies we get in our foster home. But I would love to find a place to rest my little paws. This place would need to include my sister Choko as we have lived together all our lives. I’m quite picky when it comes to whom my guinea pig girlfriends are, so I need a home that doesn’t have any other guinea pigs (except Choko, of course).
Socks
Greetings! My name is Socks, a sweet and gentle female rabbit who finds comfort in the presence of my dearest friend, Buttercup. Let me share with you a glimpse into my world, where friendship and companionship reign supreme. Ever since Buttercup hopped into my life, we formed an unbreakable bond. She is my rock, my confidante, and my constant companion. With her confident and outgoing personality, she takes the lead in our adventures, while I prefer to stay by her side, observing the world with cautious eyes.
While Buttercup may approach strangers with ease, I tend to be more reserved. I’m a bit shy around unfamiliar faces, preferring the comfort of our little corner where it’s just Buttercup and me. In our own quiet world, we have developed a unique language, communicating through gentle nudges and shared moments of silence.
When someone new enters our space, it is Buttercup who investigates, fearlessly exploring the surroundings. I find solace in knowing that she has my back, ensuring our safety and allowing me to observe from a distance. Although I may seem reserved, my trust in Buttercup is unwavering, and I know she will guide us through any situation.
In our cozy home, there’s nothing I adore more than snuggling up with Buttercup. The warmth of her fur against mine brings me a sense of security like no other. While Buttercup is the confident leader, I provide her with unwavering loyalty and affection, ensuring that our friendship remains steadfast.
So, if you happen to meet us, don’t be surprised if I take a step back and observe from a distance. But rest assured, behind my shy exterior, there lies a heart full of love and devotion to my dearest friend, Buttercup. Together, we navigate this world, cherishing the simple joys of companionship and finding solace in each other’s presence.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s time for another quiet moment with Buttercup, where we’ll share the gentle comfort of our friendship. In this haven we’ve created, I find solace and contentment, knowing that I am truly blessed to have a friend like Buttercup by my side.
I am bonded with Buttercup and we must go home together.
rabb
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