You’re giving a dog a second chance. Love is sweeter the second time around, right?
You’re probably saving a life. While the shelter you adopt from may be no-kill, you’re freeing up space in that shelter for a dog from another state who may be coming from a facility that does allow for euthanasia. The math is simple: more dogs adopted into loving homes = fewer dogs euthanized.
You’re being matched. Reputable shelters put a great deal of time and effort into matching dogs with the right homes. So, you can feel good knowing that the experts think that you and your new furry friend are made for each other.
You can skip the puppy stage. Puppies are sugar and spice and everything nice. They also need to be house trained, have a tendency to bite, and require a huge amount of time and training. Not looking to go through those trying puppy days? Shelters are full of adult dogs waiting for loving homes.
Get that spay out of the way! Most shelter dogs, regardless of age, come home having already been spayed or neutered. Not only are you saving a bit of money, but you won’t need to worry about any accidental oopsie litters.
You can get the best of many breeds. Want the good looks of a pug without all health issues? Chances are, there’s a pug mix at the shelter with a longer snout! Looking for the smarts of a border collie without the long hair? Perhaps there’s a border collie/boxer available for adoption! When you’re not restricted to the characteristics of purebred dogs, you can get a little more creative.
Speaking of purebred dogs, the pedigree dog world can have its share of genetic health issues. Mixed breeds tend to be healthier and are less prone to genetic illnesses, which is a plus especially if you opt for pet health insurance.
Reduced cost. Even the most expensive shelter adoption fees pale in comparison to the price of purebred puppies from reputable breeders. Save your money and spend it on all the new swag your new friend will need, like dental care products, a crate, toys, high-quality food, a leash, and veterinary care.
You won’t be supporting puppy mills. Unless you’re a well versed puppy buyer who knows the ins and outs of identifying reputable breeders, you risk supporting a puppy mill when purchasing a pure bred dog. Puppy mills are rife with animal suffering and, as dog lovers, we must do everything we can to put them out of business. Adopting from a shelter means you can be sure your money is going to support the shelter, not lining the pockets of unscrupulous puppy mill breeders
LOVE! Shelter dogs will love you forever. Now, don’t misunderstand: all dogs, no matter where you get them from, are a huge commitment that require time, energy, training, and commitment. But shelter dog love? That’s a special kind of love.
Rescue dogs often exhibit gratitude because they have experienced a significant change in their lives, transitioning from uncertain or challenging circumstances to a loving and stable environment. They will show their appreciation in their own unique way, whether it be through cuddles, gentle nudges, wagging tails, or eager obedience.
Having faced adversity, rescue dogs often display a strong sense of loyalty, forming deep bonds with their new owners and showing appreciation for the second chance they’ve been given. They will do everything they can to repay their new owners with unconditional love and devotion.
Many rescue dogs have overcome difficult situations and are incredibly resilient. They often have a strong will to survive and thrive, which can be an inspiration to their owners. A rescue dog’s resilience shines through in their ability to form trusting relationships with new owners, despite previous hardships, and to learn and respond positively to training and socialization efforts.
Having navigated various environments before finding a forever home, they often possess a flexible nature that allows them to adjust quickly to new surroundings and routines. They’re often quick learners and many can adapt to their new home and routine with ease.
Each rescue dog has their own unique personality and backstory. Adopting a rescue dog means getting to know their individual quirks, likes, and dislikes, which can be a fun and rewarding experience. Be sure to ask the rescue about the dogs that you meet so you know as much as you can about them when you take them home.
Many rescue dogs have had to interact with other dogs and people in a shelter environment. This can make them highly social and friendly, making them great companions for families with children or other pets. Rescue dogs often just want to receive love and give love and that goes for 4 legged friends as much as their humans.
Contrary to popular belief, rescue dogs can be highly trainable. With patience and consistency, they can learn new commands and behaviors just as easily as any other dog. The earlier training can be implemented the better outcomes you may have with any unwanted behavior.
Adopting a rescue dog can truly change your life. It’s a rewarding experience that can bring immense joy and companionship into your life, and you’ll be making a positive impact on the life of the dog you adopt. Caring for a rescue dog fosters a sense of responsibility and purpose, as you become their provider and advocate.
