Why Consider Pet Adoption?

Not all animals that are put into shelters have behavior problems. In fact, the reasons around the growing problem of overcrowded animal shelters are normally people related. Most of the pets and animals at shelters are abandoned by their owners because of unrealistic expectations of time, money, and effort in sustaining a lifelong association with their pets. Consider these benefits when considering pet adoption.

8 - 12 million pets are left at rescue centers every year
The number one reason to adopt is the fact that there are so many good animals who are put up for adoption every year. Rather than purchase a puppy from a breeder or pet store it makes sense to at least take a look at the pets at your local shelter or rescue center. Why buy a pet... when there are so many homeless animals in the country? Adopt a pet and save a pet’s life.

Medical care
Most shelters do an evaluation of a pet’s health before allowing the animal to be adopted. They also usually spay or neuter and give pets the necessary shots to keep them healthy at no cost. MOST shelters provide these services but make sure you inquire about the medical care provided to animals at your local shelter.

Many unique breeds & large selections
With so many dogs and cats taken to shelters you have a large selection of breeds and mixed breeds to choose from. There are many unique mixes in shelters that you simply cannot find at your local pet store. Of course there are pure breeds too.

Pet history
When you adopt a pet you have the opportunity to inquire about the pet’s history and background. Ask the staff members at your local shelter about the pet’s behavior since coming into the facility. This will allow you to get an idea about the pet’s temperament and what additional training that may be involved before you adopt.

Some are already trained
A lot of these animals have received basic training from their previous owners. Also, staff members in many shelters and rescues provide training to the pets they house.

If you are considering a new dog or cat, but aren't too excited about the training involved, then it is a good idea to check what’s available at your local animal shelter. You never know, you could find the perfect, already trained, pet at your local animal shelter.

Find the perfect pet for your lifestyle
Consider the reasons that many pet owners place their animals in shelters to begin with. They got a kitten or puppy, and then that pet grew up and developed its own unique "personality". Sometimes the pet was too hyper for the owner, or sometimes the pet was too lazy to be a part of an active life.

When you choose a pet from a shelter you get to see many different pets that have developed their own personalities. This gives you a good idea if the dog or cat you choose is going to fit into your own unique lifestyle.