DSPCA appeals to public to look beyond superstition

The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) is urging animal lovers to consider adopting black dogs and cats, as these beautiful animals often face significantly longer adoption times.

Commonly referred to as “Black Dog and Cat Syndrome,” dark-coated animals can spend up to four times longer in shelters compared to their lighter-coated counterparts.

This is due to a combination of superstition, aesthetics and social media trends.

Corporate sponsors of the famous animal shelter, Lottoland, have come onboard to help DSPCA highlight this campaign in advance for Halloween.

Reasons for Delayed Adoptions:

Superstition: Historically, black cats have been linked to myths of bad luck and witchcraft. While these beliefs have less influence today, they may still deter some potential adopters.

Aesthetics & Photography: Black animals can be harder to photograph, making them less likely to stand out in a shelter environment or on social media. In a world where photos often drive decisions, this can negatively impact adoption rates.

Negative Stereotypes: Black dogs, in particular, have been unfairly portrayed in media and literature as dangerous or intimidating, reinforcing harmful biases.

DSPCA’s Suzanne McGovern with Ike and Leah Brennan with Yuki

DSPCA spokesperson Suzanne McGovern said “If you’re adopting a pet remember a dog or cat of any color can fit into your lifestyle.

“In a shelter environment, black animals can sometimes be harder to see in dimmed lighting or crowded spaces, making them less likely to catch the eye of visitors interested in adopting.

“Dogs or cats with lighter or more colourful coats can stand out more.

“Many of our darker animals especially the older and quieter ones have wonderful gentle personalities.

“All animals should be judged for their unique character and not just their appearance so we would urge people to look beyond superstitions and aesthetics as you might just miss out on your new best friend!

“However, regardless of coat colour our message in the DSPCA remains adopt don’t shop”.

Laura Pearson VP of Global Corporate Affairs for Lottoland who are corporate sponsors of the DSPCA said “We are urging people to support this worthy campaign by visiting their website www.dspca.ie where they will find so many beautiful pets who would bring so much joy an company to families and singletons of all ages.”

The DSPCA actively champion black pets for adoption through fun and engaging profiling and adoption drives.

A Fun Twist to Black Cat Adoption: The DSPCA’s cat adoption team has come up with a creative approach to promoting black cats.

In a playful campaign, they highlight the many reasons to adopt a black kitten:

“I’m always appropriately dressed for cocktail parties.”

“You can always find me in the snow.”

“I’m not just a cat, I’m a mini house panther.”

“I will match any house décor.”

“I will bring you good luck.”

These engaging messages help the public see beyond superstition and stereotypes, encouraging people to consider adopting black cats and dogs, who are just as loving and deserving as any other pet.

To help support the DSPCA visit www.lottoland.ie/winwin-charity-lotto and for more information on adopting from the DSPCA, visit www.dspca.ie