Pet Adoption: The Benefits & Rewards!

The next time you are in the market for a new furry friend, please consider adopting your pet from a shelter or pet rescue. While there are many myths surrounding pet adoption, the truth is, it's the BEST choice. And, here's why:


1. Cost. The cost of adopting a pet at an animal shelter is usually inexpensive compared to buying one from a breeder or pet store. Often animals adopted from shelters have already been neutered or there is some economic incentive to have the animal neutered. Most of these animals have also been wormed and vaccinated.


2. You Become a Hero! Adopting a companion animal from a shelter means you are helping, and not contributing to, the pet overpopulation problem.


3. Forget Potty Training. Adopting a mature dog or cat means that you do not have to go through the demanding stage of raising a puppy or kitten. Mature pets are often house-trained (although some mistakes will likely occur until the animal is used to his/her new family, home and routine) and may even have some basic training.


4. You Have Information About Your Pet. With a mature pet you have a good idea of the animal's temperament and you know the animal's adult size, hair coat etc.


5. Companionship. Providing the animals get along, an adopted pet can be good company for other pets - in addition to you and your family.


6. Love. Shelter animals have beautiful temperaments and want to please their new guardians. They know you saved them and they will continue to thank you for that for years to come - they are smart creatures!
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Our Zoe Girl

Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with many amazing rescue groups and shelters and the experience has been extremely gratifying to say the least. In fact, my husband and I adopted a lab/mix from our local Humane Society last January. Zoe has been such a blessing and a wonderful addition to our family. We wouldn't trade her for the world!


If you, too, are interested in adoption, there are some great resources on the Web to help you get started in your search for a pet that will fit your lifestyle.


First, I would start with Petfinder. They partner with rescues all over the country in an attempt to help place rescues in good homes. Second, I would recommend visiting your local Humane Society or shelter.


Good luck in your search. I promise you will be rewarded in more ways than one if you adopt a rescued pet!


M.J.