Pet Articles: Lifestyle

5 Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Dog or Cat

Welcoming a new furry family member into your home is a big decision, so naturally you want to research all of your options. Consider the advantages of adopting shelter pets.

All Articles
dog and cat sitting beside owner

Here’s why it can be a joyful experience for you and your new four-legged family member. 

1. Dogs and cats are kings

At most shelters, our furry friends are number one. It’s pets over profit. Shelters worth their salt are more concerned about finding good homes for dogs and cats than turning a profit.

Employees work there because they truly love animals and will put the pets’ needs first, so you’ll know the rescued pets have received good care. 

2. You’ll save money

Because making money isn’t a top priority for shelters, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg for adoption fees. Rescuing a loving shelter pet is worth way more than you’ll actually spend to bring them home.

3. Fewer surprises

One of the biggest misconceptions is that shelter pets behave badly and have health issues. Some shelter animals may have experienced trauma from previous owners and require more patience and training than others. But shelter staff will have evaluated each pet’s behavior before you take them home. You’ll know upfront what special care and attention may be needed.

Also, most shelters provide quality medical care and ensure pets are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and treated for fleas and ticks before you adopt them. 

4. Improves quality of life

Having a pet to take care of and keep you company can lift your spirits, lower stress and help remedy anxiety or depression. Bringing the unconditional love of a cat or dog into your home can do wonders for your happiness.

5. You're saving two lives

So visit a local shelter and talk to the caring staff. You’ll soon realize adopting a shelter pet is the best way to bring a new family member into your home. Every time you adopt a dog or cat from a shelter, you’re saving two lives – your new pet’s life and the life of the next homeless dog or cat that can now replace them at the shelter.

After all, what’s more satisfying than saving the lives of our innocent furry friends?