Photo Source: aspca
Adopting and not shopping for animals helps eradicate pet shops and breeders. The most famous example are puppies. Puppy farms or mills are just used for the sole purpose of making a profit without caring about the health of the animals and cut corners when raising them. They are forcefully bred several times. Of course, this not only happens to dogs but to cats, birds, bunnies and other household pets.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) addresses their stats by conducting research of animals in shelters by stating, “Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Of those, approximately 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats.” What people are looking for in an animal is right within their reach if they just do some research. There are so many animals out there that are waiting for a forever home. We should take into consideration the lives of those animals because they could change our lives forever; they could introduce us to our new careers and even improve our health. By careers, I mean you may end up loving animals and wish to do something in your life that may have to do with animals or bettering their lives.
Research is key when adopting. Some animals may need higher maintenance so that is also something to look for when adopting an animal. Most animal shelters offer information about animals online. Adopting an animal should not be rushed; you should take time to see what kind of animal you may want and even if you could have an animal due to health issues that may be in the way (being allergic to certain things).
Adopting also means that you will be getting your unique personality when relating to the animals since you will be in touch with the animal when visiting them at the shelter. The shelter also has their animals neutered, vaccinated and chipped. It is all taken care of and is stress-free. Also, some sheltered animals may already be trained!
Yes, any kind of animal you may be getting is a big responsibility but in reality, it is helping you contribute to improving your responsibility skills. Whether it be a dog, cat or any kind of pet, you need to take in mind that they need time. They need time to get used to their new environment, not only where they live but as well as getting used to you as you will be their owner and they will be part of your family.
Adopting is the way to go. Not only would it be cheaper, but the amount of unconditional love is something special. You are doing big things when it comes to adopting. When it comes to puppies and dogs, you are fighting against those puppy mills as you adopt rather than support their breeding facilities that just benefit from the welfare of dogs.
By Lourdes Huerta (Editor-in-Chief)