- Do you subscribe to Dharma Dog Training’s Newsletter? You should.
- A Unique Campaign from The Humane Society of the United States
- Rabid bats in Omaha- Stay safe, prepared with these tips
- Springtime Activities in Omaha
- Mill Dog Monthly from Bailing Out Benji
- World Spay Day, Legislative Alert in Nebraska
- Attend the Nebraska Rescue Council’s monthly meeting this Saturday
- Five Hard-to-Ignore Reasons to Adopt!
- Paws in Pink to Benefit Breast Cancer Foundation
- VCA, Inc. Acquires MidWest Vet Specialists from Kansas State University
Benefits of Adopting a Shelter Dog
Are you looking for a new dog to add to your family? Shelter dogs are an excellent option for several reasons, and you get to welcome a highly grateful new four-legged friend into your home.
One of the significant benefits of adopting a shelter dog is that you are saving three lives; the dog you choose to adopt, the dog that comes in after them, and yourself. Dogs give us their loyalty and companionship; adopting a dog can be an excellent way to provide a dog in need with a chance at life.
Another benefit when you go to a shelter to adopt is that you will likely go home with a dog that day and start enjoying time with your new canine companion. Read on and learn the benefits of adopting a shelter dog.
Why You Should Adopt a Shelter Dog
The phrase “adopt, don’t shop” carries much meaning. When you adopt a dog, you support a good cause and give a special pup a furever home. Adopting a dog is a pawsome way to ensure that a dog in need gets a new home that day. There are several reasons why you should adopt a shelter dog:
You Are Saving Three Lives
It is estimated that 6.3 million companion animals enter United States shelters annually. The awful truth is that out of that 6.3 million, thousands of animals are senselessly euthanized if no one adopts them quickly enough. Adopting a dog from a shelter saves three lives: the dog you choose, the next dog who gets a chance for a new family, and yourself.
Too Many Dogs Are Surrendered
When a dog is given up to a shelter, it is often very traumatizing for them. It is devastating, and the dog does not understand why their family is leaving them behind. However, nothing beats seeing the face of a happy dog who knows they are going to a new, loving family. Some of the common reasons why pets are surrendered:
- Lifestyle changes
- Financial hardship
- Moving to a new location
- Lack of experience with pets
It is important to consider that taking care of a companion animal is a lifelong commitment. Your dog should be considered a cherished member of your family. It may seem like hard advice, but you should only get one if you have the time and energy to care for a pet. Too many pets are surrendered to shelters.
You Will Get Unconditional Love
It goes without saying that a dog loves unconditionally. However, a shelter pup has reasons to be extra thankful to someone who adopts them. Dogs know when they have been rescued. You give a deserving dog love, family, food, and a comfortable place to rest their head. Your kindness to them will be rewarded tenfold, and you will receive unconditional love from them. In addition to unconditional love, you will also reap other surprising benefits:
- Decreased stress and anxiety
- Lowered blood pressure
- Improved social life
- More exercise
A new dog also means having a new best friend and cuddle buddy. You will experience a surge in oxytocin, which is “the love hormone” that nurtures close relationships.
It Can Be Cost Effective
Purebreed dogs can cost thousands of dollars, but shelter dogs will not likely break the bank. While the thought of an adorable purebred pup may be enticing, you cannot beat the cost of a shelter dog compared to the love and companionship you will receive. The adoption fee typically includes the following:
- Required vaccines
- Spay or neutering
- Dog license
- Microchip
Costs can vary based on location. You must go online and check out the shelter cost at the ASPCA or other local shelters you may be interested in adopting from. Remember that you should always take your new pup to the vet for a thorough check-up whenever you adopt.
Shelter Dogs Are Often Mature
Shelter dogs are more mature because they are usually past the puppy stage, and you often do not need to potty train or house train them. Most dogs surrendered to a shelter come there because their owner, for whatever reason, decides they can no longer care for them. You can give a wonderful senior dog happiness in their golden years.
You Can Get A Puppy
If your heart is set on a puppy, you can still get a puppy from a shelter. Many dogs come to shelters from unwanted litters and need homes. A puppy requires more work, but it comes with unique rewards. The dog will grow up being a part of your family, so they will likely snuggle up with you for a long time.
Conclusion
Adopting from a shelter has many great benefits. Too many dogs are surrendered, and shelters are full of dogs who need loving homes. Consider opening your home and heart to a shelter dog; you will save three lives.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login