Many people who want to bring a new puppy or kitten into the family decide to use a breeder to find their animal or sometimes even pet stores.
More people should really consider adopting a dog from their local shelter. There are so many amazing pets waiting to be loved and brought home to the shelter, many of whom, without you, will be put to sleep. People assume that shelters only have “rejected” animals, the ones that nobody wants, but that’s far from the truth. You can find half bloods and pure bloods in the shelter. Many of which have been abandoned by their previous owner for different reasons. Many of the animals in the shelters are already domesticated and just need the love of a family again.
Another benefit of adopting from a shelter is that you save money. You can easily spend $800 or more on a thoroughbred from a breeder, or you can get an animal from the shelter for next to nothing. Also, knowing that you have saved that dog’s life is a very rewarding feeling. Many of the shelter dogs are put to sleep because “there isn’t enough room” in the kennels and it breaks my heart. They did nothing to deserve to be put to sleep. They just want a loving home that they can call their own. But instead, they put them to sleep for overcrowding the kennels. The way it makes you feel knowing you saved that animal’s life and having such a great companion at home is amazing.
If you’re considering getting a new pet for you or your family, take a moment and go to your local shelter. They get new animals all the time, so if you don’t see one you like, come back again. My local shelter puts photos of all the animals they have up for adoption on their website. Do some research and maybe yours will too. Good luck finding a new addition to your family!
