Animal shelters take in millions of dogs annually, each looking for a forever home.  While buying a little puppy at the pet shop may be tempting, resist the urge.  Rescuing a shelter dog adds a new family member, reduces expenses, and saves a life.  Prospective dog owners should adopt from their local animal shelter.

A dog, with it’s playful disposition, complete devotion, and warm heart, makes a wonderful addition to any family.  Josh Billings said, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself,” and this rings true for many.  Upon returning home from a long day at work or school, a dog’s tail-wagging greeting filled with love and genuine happiness will make the day’s troubles melt away.  The fun-loving creatures are always eager for a game of frisbee or fetch or whatever fits the mood.  If staying home all day sounds more like it, they’re content to claim the coziest spot on the couch.  Whether drawn to a large, shaggy Saint Bernard, a cuddly Toy Poodle, or something in between, there’s a perfect dog for everyone.

Buying a new dog at a pet shop can be expensive, but acquiring one from a shelter can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.  For example, a pet shop may charge $1,000 or more whereas a shelter’s minor fee is usually less than $100.  Vet bills can add up as well, as many puppies from pet stores are unhealthy, often infected with sometimes fatal viruses such as parvovirus or distemper.  Most puppies from pet stores originated in puppy mills where dogs are mass bred under inhumane conditions.  In contrast, shelters will treat dogs for health issues as well as spay/neuter them for free or at a discounted price.  Don’t support puppy mills by buying from pet shops.  Instead, save money and adopt from a low-cost shelter.

Most importantly, adopting a shelter dog saves it from euthanasia and frees up space for a potential new pup looking for a home.  According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 1.2 million dogs in shelters are euthanized daily simply due to lack of space.  With millions of homeless dogs waiting on death row, why buy from a pet shop?  Imagine thousands of dogs in kennels wishing to have a loving family… make a difference and save one.

The shelter is a one-stop spot to pick up a new friend, save that cash, and open a new door to life for one lucky pooch.  Adopting a dog will improve life for both the owner and the pet.  Visit the animal shelter today to find a lifelong pal.