Adopting vs. Buying Pets: Myths, Truths, and Insights from Our Adoption Fair

 More often than not, most of us yearn for a companion. Not just a companion but a comforting presence that never falters and an unrivalled confidant. The kind of friend who eagerly waits for you at home with twinkling eyes and a wagging tail.

On the 13th of April this year, we set out with the intention of forging connections and forming unparalleled friendships by hosting an adoption fair. It was a day filled with hope, laughter, family and a shared purpose. The goal was to help animals find their forever homes that they so deserve and we are so grateful to have achieved that with the help of our community’s unwavering support. 

So, Why Strays?

The more important question here is, why do we seek out to buy and nurture pets from puppy mills and breeders who often exploit animals for their profit-maximization incentive by keeping them in an unsanitary and overcrowded environment– when we have those in need right in front of us? There are various reasons for this. Some of them include:

• Prejudices against stray animals

• Lack of awareness about unethical breeding practices 

• Social status and breed aesthetics—a want for an “aesthetically pleasing” breed arising from socio-psychological needs of portraying an affluent lifestyle through symbolic representation of animals of exotic breeds.

• Influence of media and marketing—glamorizing specific breeds and shaping public tastes and preferences

• The bystander effect

 The animals in our adoption fair were in need of a loving environment, and sent a message that though they had been neglected in the past, they were not any less. 

What Exactly Is the “Bystander Effect”?

The bystander effect is a phenomenon wherein people are less likely to assist those in need in a situation of emergency in hopes that other people around them would step in to help, assuming diffusion of responsibility. In turn, the one in need remains helpless. This can be detected in our behaviour towards stray animals. In our lives we come across numerous strays and some of them in desperate need of help. Help which we do not lend assuming someone else would. In the end, they are stranded without a single strand of hope. And this is why we chose to help them. This is why when given a choice one should always consider adopting instead of buying pets. 

Busting Myths about Adoption and Stray Animals

Here are some common misconceptions and myths about stray animals and adoption that need to be addressed, ensuring there’s no hesitation when it comes to choosing adoption.

Myth 1: Stray animals are sick or disease ridden.

Reality: Some stray animals can be prone to diseases due to their environment and lack of resistance to the disease. Most are actually born healthy but lead a dangerous life in harsh living conditions. 

Myth 2: Stray animals can’t be trained or they’re aggressive in nature.

Reality: Their temperament is heavily dependent on the environment they’re brought up in. Their temper might stem from a place of fear and might be a defense mechanism. A Stray animal can have the same temperament as a puppy from a breeder and be just as trainable.

Myth 3: Adoption is complicated and is a time-consuming process.

Reality: While reputable shelters may conduct background checks to ensure animals are placed in safe homes as a part of a routine procedure, the adoption process is usually straightforward and well-guided. A bit of patience can lead to a life of love and companionship.

Myth 4: Adopted animals won’t bond with you as well as a bought puppy.

Reality: Adopted animals possess the ability to form a deep loving bond and even a stronger bond as they’ve much more to be appreciative for when they’re adopted and cared for. 

Myths regarding stray animals stem deeply from misinformation and misconceptions that need to be eliminated as they obstruct the path that leads to the decision that can not only save the lives of thousands of pets but also enrich yours.

What We Took from Our Experience 

The crucial thing to understand is that kindness doesn’t have to come in the form of grand gestures, especially if that’s not something you can afford. Often, it’s the small, consistent acts of compassion that make the biggest impact. A gentle word, a helping hand, or simply showing an animal they matter can ease their burden in ways you might never fully see. These moments of care not only uplift others but can quietly inspire those around you to do the same—creating a ripple effect of empathy and change. And this is precisely what we witnessed in our adoption fair.

 We saw people arrive with their families and friends, bringing with them love, compassion, and open hearts. Children were thrilled to feed the animals, and many left with wide smiles, and in some cases, a new furry friend. Through this, we witnessed the true power of community and the incredible heights we can reach when united by a common purpose. We are deeply grateful to every individual who stood beside us in this meaningful journey, and to the small businesses of Pune who showed unwavering support and generosity, reminding us that collective effort can spark real change.