When it comes to adding a new member to the family, it is always advisable to adopt, not shop. Pet adoption is an excellent way to embrace a new furry friend into one’s life while simultaneously reducing animal homelessness. Adopting a pet not only benefits the pet but also has a positive impact on the adopter’s mental and physical well-being. Here we discuss the reasons and recommendations for pet adoption.
Reducing Animal Homelessness
One of the most significant reasons to adopt a pet is to reduce animal homelessness. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), reports that around 6.5 million pets enter animal shelters each year in the USA. Despite animal shelters’ best efforts, around 1.5 million pets in these shelters are euthanized yearly due to overcrowding. By adopting pets from shelters, we can reduce the number of animals left to face short lifespans and improve their quality of life.
Reducing the Cost of Pets
Adopting a pet can also be more affordable than purchasing one. Even if the adoption fee is around $100, purchasing a pet from a breeder could cost anywhere between $500 and $3000. Additionally, adoption fees usually include preliminary veterinary care, such as deworming or spaying/neutering, which would otherwise be a considerable expense if one were to purchase the pet.
Saving Lives and Supporting Animal Shelters
Every pet adopted from a shelter supports the animal shelter that the pet came from. The money that goes into adoption fees is directly used to maintain the shelter and care for the animals residing there. By adopting pets from shelters, we can help provide homes for pets while also being a part of the solution to animal homelessness.
Companionship and Improved Health
Adopting pets also has numerous physical and mental health benefits. Animals offer companionship that can help ease stress, reduce blood pressure, and increase physical activity. Pets help reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Additionally, owning a pet can be beneficial to children, teaching them responsibility, empathy, and social skills.
Recommended Pet Adoption Tips
When considering adopting a pet, it is essential to understand that adopting a pet is a significant investment, both emotionally and financially. To ensure that one is ready for the responsibility of pet ownership, consider the following tips:
1. Research pet breeds and understand which breed works best for one’s lifestyle.
2. Ask the animal shelter staff for recommendations based on preferences, personality, and living situation.
3. Consider adopting an older pet, since older pets may be more independent and easier to care for than younger animals.
4. Prepare a checklist and buy all the necessary equipment, including a crate or carrier, food, toys, and grooming supplies.
5. Set up a schedule for visits to the vet for checkups and proper medical care.
Conclusion
Pet adoption is not only a beneficial decision for animals and animal shelters, but it also offers various emotional and physical benefits for humans. By choosing adoption over buying, one can improve the pet’s quality of life while also enhancing their well-being. So, take the first step towards becoming a pet parent and adopt the perfect furry friend!
Custom message: Remember, pets are not things, but they are living beings. Consider adopting a pet and give them love and care they deserve.
