#Middlebury #Pets
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: If a pet gets released into the wild, can it survive on its own? – Ben G., via email
DEAR CONCERNED: Some domesticated pets can survive for a while outdoors, hunting or scavenging for food. But they have a much shorter lifespan and can easily fall prey to injury, sickness or other predators.
Dogs, for example, have been domesticated for so long that they’ve lost many of the key skills required of a wolf or a truly wild dog. According to a study published in 2010, “Pet dogs failed basic intelligence tests that wolves and wild dogs pass with ease.” This may be because pet dogs are trained to expect food at certain times of day, and do not have to hunt for it – so they’ve never really had to think about how to solve certain problems.
And while cats are noted for their independence and hunting skills, a cat abandoned in the wild may not fare very well – and may become prey for larger predators or even feral cats.
The same goes for other domesticated pets. Rabbits? There’s a good chance Flopsy will just sit there in the field where you abandoned him until a hawk spots him and swoops in. Parrots? They’ll have trouble finding food they can eat, and except for the very southernmost parts of the U.S., winter temperatures will stress their systems fatally.
My point is that releasing pets into the wild is utterly cruel and downright cowardly. A pet is a responsibility, one you’ve taken on. If you’re having trouble taking care of a pet, resources are available in your local community, from shelters to pet charities. Ask for help. Don’t just abandon your pets.
Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2019 King Features Synd. Inc.
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