In a surprising revelation, a recent survey of 2,000 British adults has unveiled a persistent superstition that’s impacting the lives of black cats and dogs. The research, conducted by Lottoland in partnership with Blue Cross, found that a staggering 12% of respondents believe these animals bring misfortune and actively avoid adopting them. This belief extends to a broader societal trend: a quarter of Britons self-identify as ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ superstitious.
The data from Blue Cross paints a concerning picture. Black cats and dogs take significantly longer to find loving homes compared to their non-black counterparts, suggesting a direct link between these superstitions and animal welfare.
While superstitions are deeply rooted in human culture, their impact on animals is undeniable. A representative from Lottoland explained: “Superstitions have been a part of human culture for centuries, passed down from generation to generation. At their core, they often stem from a need to make sense of the unknown and to seek control in situations where we might feel powerless.”
This sentiment is reflected in other common British superstitions, with a third of respondents fearing breaking a mirror and 14% avoiding spilling salt without throwing some over their shoulder.
However, Mary Haisman, head of corporate partnerships, community, and events at Blue Cross, emphasizes the importance of moving beyond outdated beliefs: “There’s no reason to let outdated superstitions stop you from welcoming a black dog or cat into your home.”
She highlights the unfortunate reality: “Black pets are just as loving, loyal, and deserving of a home as any other animal, and it’s unfortunate that these superstitions can sometimes prevent them from finding families. For example, it takes an extra five days and £50 more on average for us to find loving new homes for black cats, compared to others in our care.”
Haisman’s personal story underscores the impact of these superstitions. She recounts the experience of adopting a black dog named Pablo, who spent over five months in foster care due to his color: “He’s the sweetest boy, I am genuinely surprised he wasn’t rehomed quicker. Whilst we cannot know for certain, the suspicions were that it took so long because he’s a black dog, but I honestly can’t think of any other reason. He has the sweetest temperament, gives our family endless love, and is such an important part of my life.”
Pablo’s story is a stark reminder that superstitions can have real-world consequences. As we move forward, it’s crucial to challenge these unfounded beliefs and recognize the inherent worth of all animals, regardless of their color. The love and companionship a black cat or dog can offer are boundless, and their welfare should not be compromised by outdated and harmful superstitions.
