The thought of abandoned animals is absolutely terrible, but because there are so many of them, millions are euthanized each and every year. If more people considered adopting an adorable mutt or kitten from the pound, shelter, or their choice of rescue organization, there would be less homeless animals in this world. Puppy mills are amongst the most devastating trades that damage an animal’s chance at being adopted. Due to greedy people who constantly breed animals in oftentimes unsanitary conditions to rake in some dough, many individuals who are looking for an adorable family friend head straight to the pet store. These individuals pay upward of one thousand dollars for puppy that may be inbreeded or bred in unethical conditions.
Many stray animals are turned into the shelter on any given day. Whether they are found running around the streets, rummaging through trash trying to find some scraps for dinner, or had a great older companion who passed away, these animals are bound to be loyal pets and deserve a second chance!
Instead of paying hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars, the adopter will pay less than $100, which covers spaying/neutering, microchipping, licensing, and the medical expenses that may have accrued during the animals stay. Individuals may state that one does not know what type of health issues or behavioral traits will come with a pet adopted from a shelter, however from personal experience, I would have to say that these beautiful creatures are grateful for having a home and show their gratitude on a daily basis. I adopted a kitten a couple months back, let’s just say he was my Thanksgiving present to myself. This kitten is so appreciative and loving and has developed quite a begging habit (he generally just thrusts his head into bowls of cereal when you are not looking). I do not know what happened before I came into his life, except for the fact that he was fostered by a volunteer, and sick early on in his life. Not only was he underweight, but he had mange. By the time I adopted him, these conditions had already been treated and I was the new mother of a healthy kitten, and he brings me immense happiness.
Fortunately there is a campaign that targets animal lovers spreading the message that adoption is the best option for those ready to invite an animal into their family. For those who have not gotten the message by now: DON’T SHOP, ADOPT!!
