1. You can get the satisfaction of saving lives
Estimates vary, but the fact is that somewhere around 3 to 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States. If you choose to adopt one of these animals, you can be happy to know that you are helping to solve the homeless pet problem in America.
You are also choosing not to support “puppy mills,” which are factory-level breeding facilities that put profit much higher than animal welfare. Most of the animals raised in these mills are in poor condition with improper medical care. They are often in poor health and have persistent behavioral issues due to lack of socialization and human companionship. Pets from these puppy mills are sold to unsuspecting consumers in pet stores, online, and through newspaper classifieds ads.
By adopting a pet instead of buying one, you can be sure that you are not supporting these terrible establishments.
2. You can shop around for the perfect pet
Animal shelters and rescue groups have plenty of healthy, well-behaved animals waiting for a home. Most shelters screen and vaccinate the animals upon arrival, and many spay or neuter them prior to adoption. In addition to providing medical care, many shelters and rescue groups also assess a pet’s personality and behavior to match pets with the ideal owners.
There is a common belief that animals end up in shelters because they have been mistreated or misbehaved. In fact, many of the animals in shelters are there for reasons that have more to do with the previous owners than the pets themselves: divorce, moving, lack of time and financial limitations are among the most common reasons that pets lose their homes. Adopted pets can be just as loving, intelligent, and loyal as purchased ones.
3. You will save money
Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is less expensive than buying one from a pet store or through other sources. Buying a pet can easily cost $500 to $1,000 or more, while adoption fees range from $50 to $200. Additionally, animals from many shelters are already spayed/neutered, vaccinated, or both, making shelter fees a bargain.
If your heart is set on a purebred dog, you can still look to shelters or set up rescue groups, as purebreds are often given up for adoption as well.
4. You can choose a pet of any age
Although puppies and kittens are cute, they can require a lot of work to train them. An adult or older animal that has already been trained may be a better fit for your lifestyle. For example, adopting an adult dog who is already trained and knows basic commands is often much easier than adopting a puppy.
5. You can have a support system
Rescue groups often provide support to new owners because keeping pets in good homes is in the best interest of these groups. So if you’re concerned about health issues, would like advice on what kind of dog food to buy, or have other basic questions, the shelter staff likely have opinions and tips to share.
You can find adoptable pets listed on websites or contact your local pet shelter.
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