Whether you live alone, or are hoping add a new member in your family, pets make some of the best companions ever. These cute and cuddly friends will love unconditionally and no matter what, they’ll stay right beside you, whether or not you disagree on the same TV show! However, the number of homeless cats and dogs are increasing in shelters, and much like any other pet, they’re in search of a new home and to spread love and joy. Here are a list of reasons why you should adopt a pet from the local shelter instead of buying one from a breeder or a pet shop.
1. You’ll Save a Life
Every year, thousands of animals are being put to sleep due to limited space in shelters and too few people who adopt from them. Break the cycle and give these furry friends a home and the chance to share their love. You won’t regret it!
2. You’ll Get a Healthy Pet
There’s a common misconception about shelter animals being dirty or infected with disease. However, this is not true. All shelters examine and send the animals to get vaccinated, get the proper treatment they need and some also neuter/spay the animals.
3. You’ll Save Money
Yes, by adopting a pet from a shelter instead of buying one from a pet store, you’ll save money and a life (which has more value than any number on a price tag). Furthermore, animals from shelters have already been given the right medical treatment they need, which allows you to save up on quite a bit in terms of medical treatments.
4. You’ll Have a Friend for Life
Animals are by nature, are very loving and loyal creatures. It has been proven that by having a pet can lift depression, ease loneliness, and lower blood pressure. Animals tend to love unconditionally, and let’s face it – who wouldn’t love having someone who’s excited to welcome you home every single day?
5. You Won’t be Supporting Puppy Mills
Puppy mills are one of the most inhumane sights to see. They basically cage up a pedigree breed, and often in a small cage of poor condition to breed over and over until they no longer can. They do not provide the animal with proper medical care, and dispose of the animal they’ve used for breeding once it becomes ill and old.
6. Variety of Animals
Animal shelters offer a huge range of dogs from stray dogs to pure breed dogs. You can pick an animal that you feel will be most suitable for you and your family, or even let the pet choose you. You’ll fall in love immediately, and it’s a win-win situation for every party.
There are so many non-profit organizations where you can adopt your pets from such as Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better. They constantly update on adoption drives they have and also the new puppies that come to their shelter. Also, if you feel like you aren’t ready to fully commit to adopting a pet, you can first help foster to get a rough idea of what you’ll be getting yourself into. Or you could volunteer your time and services to help out the shelters as they will always need an extra hand.
Article by: Harmini Asokumar