If you're seeking companionship from a pet and considering getting a new dog, our vets in Poway can assist you. In this blog post, they will discuss some of the top reasons to adopt a dog from a shelter.
What Are the Average Thoughts on Adopting Shelter Dogs?
Did you know that 8 to 12 million dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens are euthanized each year in the U.S. because there are simply not enough homes for them? Our animal hospital veterinarians in Poway are aware of this alarming number.
Unfortunately, this number is not decreasing due to the fact that many people do not see the value in adopting a homeless pet over purchasing a specific breed puppy. This can be attributed to various reasons, such as assuming that any dog adopted from a shelter will have numerous health complications. Some individuals may even believe that they will not find the breeds they are considering. Certain people may also perceive the adoption process as lengthy and complicated. Fortunately, none of these assumptions are true, which means that shelters are, in fact, a great option for anyone looking to bring a dog into their life.
Despite rumors about how these dogs end up living in shelters, there is one common, truthful theme: their stories are devastating. Some of the dogs were simply lost but never reunited with their owners, while others were intentionally abandoned. Some dogs are surrendered by individuals who can no longer provide proper care for them. Additionally, some dogs that end up in shelters were born to strays or have behavioral concerns that were not adequately addressed by their previous owners.
Don't let these rumors dissuade you from considering adopting a dog from the local shelter. If you are not entirely convinced yet, our Center Star veterinary services team shares 10 reasons why you should adopt your next dog from a local shelter.
Here Are the Top 10 Reasons to Adopt Your Dog
1. You Will Have a Lovable New Companion
The love you receive from a dog can bring you an abundance of happiness. It is forever and unconditional, even if your dog was previously in a shelter.
2. Say No to Puppy Mills With Adopting
When purchasing from numerous pet stores, it's crucial to be aware that the dogs often originate from puppy mills. These mills breed dogs in unsanitary and unfavorable conditions, resulting in a lack of adequate medical care, frequent sickness, and behavioral issues. Female dogs are typically confined without affection or positive attention and are often subjected to abuse. Once they are no longer able to produce puppies, they may be discarded or disposed of.
3. You Can Still Choose the Dog You Want
The dogs available at the shelter are eagerly waiting to meet their forever family. Shelter dogs don't understand why they were left in this place and are only looking to show their gratitude to anyone who brings them home. You will have the opportunity to go around and meet all of the dogs and pick the one that you feel the best connection with.
4. You Get a Dog That is Already House-Trained
The dogs you see in shelters do not want to be there. Whether the owner is incapable of providing care or the dog suffers from a condition that the previous owner was unable to manage, none of them have asked to be in the position they are in. You can take comfort in the fact that, having previously lived in a home, these dogs are generally house-trained already. Additionally, shelter dogs typically receive time with a professional trainer during their stay, which means you are likely to adopt a well-behaved dog.
5. You Get To Give a Dog Their Forever Home
The dogs in shelters all hope for the same thing: companionship. This includes dogs that have been lost or abandoned. These dogs have been deprived of the happy, love-filled life that they deserve. Why not show one of them the happiness that you can provide?
6. Adoption Provides a Dog With a New Lease on Life
The life of a shelter dog has likely never been easy or relaxing. However, this means that you now have the opportunity to give them a new lease on life and show them how wonderful and caring it can be. Choosing adoption for pets not only provides them with a loving home but also reduces the demand for puppy mills, which are often supported by pet stores and specific breeding practices.
7. You Will Gain a Companion Who Cares About Your Happiness
Did you know that being around animals has been scientifically proven to make people happier? By providing a pet with ongoing love and affection and companionship we are fulfilled in a way that is not met in other areas of our lives. This holds true for all age groups.
8. You Get to Protect the Wellbeing of a Dog
Our Poway veterinarians understand the common sentiment that there are not enough homes for available pets, and unfortunately, this is true. This emphasizes the importance of shifting towards adopting pets rather than purchasing them. Homeless dogs are at risk of experiencing fatal injuries, abuse, and neglect. By adopting pets available at the shelter, you can give them a second chance while making space for the next ones to find their forever homes."
9. You May Lead a Happier Life When Performing Selfless Acts
Typically, people can assume that anyone who is kind to animals should be a good person. Caring for an animal is a selfless task. In turn, you will feel love and compassion along with the therapeutic benefits of owning and caring for these animals.
10. You Get to Spend Each Day Knowing You Saved The Dog's Life
You will wake up every day knowing that the bond you have with your dog was formed the moment you saved them from a life of homelessness. They will love you unconditionally for life, and you will spend every day enjoying the benefits of this companionship.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding asthma or other allergy symptoms.