More and more Americans are adopting pets, with 36.5% of households in the United States now being home to at least one dog. While there are many different ways to go about adding a furry friend to your family, one option that is often overlooked is adoption from an animal shelter, suggests Robert Stravinsky. Animal shelters are filled with all sorts of animals in need of good homes, and there are many reasons why you should consider adoption from one of these facilities.
1. Adopting from an Animal Shelter is Cost-Effective
One of the biggest deterrents for people when it comes to getting a pet is the cost. Not only do you have to pay the initial fee for the animal itself, but you also have to factor in things like food, toys, veterinary care, and more. When you adopt from an animal shelter, however, the initial cost is often lower than if you were to purchase an animal from a breeder or pet store.
In addition, many animal shelters will include the cost of things like spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping in the initial adoption fee. This can end up saving you a significant amount of money in the long run.
2. Animal Shelters Have Animals of All Ages, Sizes, Breeds, and Temperaments
Whether you’re looking for a cuddly kitten or a laid-back adult dog, chances are good that you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for at an animal shelter. Animal shelters take in all sorts of animals from all sorts of backgrounds, which means that there’s sure to be a perfect match for every family out there.
When you adopt an animal from a shelter, you’ll also be able to learn about its history and personality so that you can make sure that it will be a compatible fit for your home and lifestyle.
3. Adopting From an Animal Shelter Helps Save Lives
Every year, millions of animals are euthanized in the United States because there simply aren’t enough homes for them all. When you adopt an animal from a shelter instead of purchasing one from a breeder or pet store, you’re opening up space in the shelter so that another animal can be saved.
In addition, many animal shelters also work with rescue organizations to help place animals who may have difficulty being adopted due to health or behavior issues.
4. You Can Feel Good Knowing You’re Giving an Animal a Second Chance
When you adopt an animal from a shelter, you’re not just giving that animal a home – you’re giving it a second chance at life. Animals in shelters have often been abandoned, abused, or neglected, and they will be incredibly grateful to have finally found a loving forever home.
The bond that you’ll share with your adopted pet will be even stronger knowing that you’ve given it a second chance at happiness.
Conclusion: There are so many great reasons to visit your local animal shelter when you’re looking to add a new pet to your home. From saving lives to finding your perfect match, adoption really is the way to go!
