Pet ownership has been on the rise for years now. And, with good reason. Pets offer their owners companionship, love, and support when they need it most. They help them relax and de-stress after a long day. They make them laugh when they need it most. In short, they offer humans everything they need to live happy, healthy lives.
But did you know that when you adopt a pet from a shelter, you’re not just getting all of those benefits? You’re also giving a pet in need a second chance at life. And that’s something that should be celebrated. Here are five reasons why adopting a pet from a shelter is the better choice:
Reason #1 You Could Save a Life
When you adopt an animal, you are giving them a second chance. They may have been abused, neglected, or abandoned and need someone to love them and care for them. You could be that person. By adopting an animal, you are saving their life and improving your own.
If you’re feeling lonely at home and are considering getting a pet, you should adopt one instead of buying one. Not only will you provide that animal with a loving home, but you’ll also get all the benefits that come with pet ownership, like companionship, increased exercise, and less stress.
Suppose you want to get a dog, but you don’t know how to house train one. In this case, you can enter your pet into a puppy jump-start program and get help from a professional. This will help you form a bond with your new dog and make it much easier for you to adjust to each other.
Reason #2 You Know What You’re Getting
When you adopt a pet, you will know their personality and quirks before taking them home. This is because most shelters thoroughly evaluate each animal before they are put up for adoption. This way, they can match the animal with the right family.
For example, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, you might want to adopt an adult cat instead of a kitten. Or, if you have young children, you might want to adopt a dog that is good with kids. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s an animal perfect for you.
Reason #3 You’ll Get a Great Pet at a Fantastic Price
The fee usually covers their vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and sometimes even microchipping when you adopt a pet. This can save you hundreds of dollars that you would otherwise have to spend on these things. And, if you adopt an animal from a shelter, the adoption fee goes back into helping care for other animals.
Of course, pet ownership in itself will cost you some money. But by adopting an animal, you can be sure that you’re getting a great pet at a fraction of the price. So, if you’re looking to save some money and get a great pet, adoption is the way to go.
After all, you’ll be supporting a good cause by adopting an animal from a shelter. That’s why you should seriously give it some thought before you decide to drive to a breeder or pet store to buy an animal.
Reason #4 You’ll Help Reduce Overpopulation in Shelters
Overpopulation is a big problem in shelters. Millions of animals are euthanized every year because there are simply too many and not enough homes. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you give that animal a second chance at life and free up space for another animal to be taken in.
If you’re scared that the animal you adopt won’t be perfect, don’t worry! Shelter staff can help you find an animal that would be a good match for your personality and lifestyle. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting a pet you’ll love and who will love you.
Reason #5 You’ll Get to Make a Difference in an Animal’s Life
When you adopt an animal, you make a lifelong commitment to them. This means that you’ll be there for them through thick and thin, good times and bad. You’ll be the one they rely on when they’re feeling scared or alone.
Adopting a pet is a rewarding experience that will make both your life and their life better. So, if you’re considering getting a pet, be sure to adopt one instead of buying one because you won’t regret it! Aside from the low cost and the ability to find the perfect pet for your family, you’ll also be giving an animal in need a loving home.
Of course, there are many other reasons to adopt a pet, but these five should be enough to convince you that it’s the better choice. So what are you waiting for? Go out there and adopt your new best friend today!