One of the most effective and sustainable ways to help a street animal is to adopt the animal and to provide it with a proper home. Since both cats and dogs are basically dependent on such care it will ensure that the animal is taken care of properly and also receives the necessary medical treatment. However, this step must be carefully considered since it might have implications for the animal and the new owner.

Animals are not toys but living beings and therefore every animal which is adopted constitutes a long-term commitment on the owners side. With other words: Animals are not for Christmas but for ever.

Street animals usually do not look as attractive as the well pampered pets but this impression is often misleading since behind all the dirt and dust very often beauty of a special kind can be found. This is also valid for the apparent behavior of the animal since most of the behavior is caused by circumstances related to the street life and might change once the animal finds itself in a more pleasant and less challenging environment. But one must be aware that the more disturbed the animal is the more love and compassion is needed to bring back the animal to a normal life.

Animals can be adopted in different ways. One of the more safe ways is to contact an animal hospital or animal shelter since many of these places have plenty of animals for adoption. The advantage is that the animals usually have received at least basic medical treatment, some vaccination, spaying and of course were cleaned up and freed of ticks and flees. Since more and more animals join the club of the homeless such animals will usually be free for the new owner.

Another way to adopt an animal is to get one off the street. Since you see the street dogs and cats every day around your house and Soi you will surely be aware of them and recognize which of them are genuine street animals. But you may not simply bring them to your home especially if you already have other animals. The best way is to take the animal to an animal clinic or vet and leave it there for about a week. The vets can then perform all the necessary measures to clean the animal and to check for obvious infections and diseases. You should consult with the vet before bringing the animal to your home and follow the instructions for further treatment of the animal.

With regard to the animals psychology you might allow sufficient time for adaptation to the new environment. After all the animal is used to constant threats and probably has developed a clear sense of distrust since help and love were usually not part of the street life. This is especially important if the street animal will join pets already in your home since a genuine competition might come up and your presence is needed to calm down the mood. But don’t be afraid. Animals usually can adapt quite well to a nice environment and realize quickly that the new situation is very beneficial for them.

Once the animal is under your influence and care you might just apply all the measures you would provide for any other pet as well. As far as street animals are concerned you may schedule medical examinations more often since the animal may have suffered from malnutrition, injuries and sickness in the past and will be in need for a more intensive medical care. This also suggests a more careful selection of food and supplements during the initial months after the adoption to build up the strength and health of the animal.

The upside of all this effort not only is the feeling to have helped a life but you will also see how the animal will change for the better every day. The skin will get clean and shiny, a healthy look replaces the bony appearance and a playful and friendly behavior will show the real nature of the animal. In many cases it is almost a miracle to see how beautiful the animal really is once you allow a decent and cared for life for your new friend. Last but not least: it is the end of a dreadful and terrible life on the streets.

So, next time you think about having a pet, consider adoption of a street cat or dog rather than buying an animal. We the street animals will be grateful forever.

For further information read the chapter "Vets and Shelters" and contact the organization most suitable for you.