You’re ready to invite a new pet into your home — that’s great! A new cat, dog, or another animal friend will enrich your family’s lives in ways you can not imagine.
But the question facing you now is whether you should adopt a pet or purchase one from a pet store or breeder. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best reasons to choose adoption when bringing this new pet into your life. It’s better for you, the animals, and the world at large.
The benefits of pet adoption
1. You’ll be saving an animal’s life
Approximately 2.7 million cats and dogs are euthanized each year in the united states. That’s because there are more cats and dogs than homes for them to stay in. With millions of animals looking for a home, it is truly beneficial to adopt rather than buy. These animals desperately need your help.
2. And you’ll be helping other animals too!
Remember also that when you adopt one animal from a shelter, you’re helping to make room for other animals who need a place to stay. There are millions of animals out there who are lost, abused, stray, and wild.
3. Any pet is great for your health and well-being, but adopted pets are extra special
Just the fact that you’re going to be inviting a new animal into your family’s life is great. Research shows that consistent interaction with pets can enrich your life and provide physical, emotional, and psychological benefits. Plus, if you adopt your new animal friend, you’ll feel extra good about it.
4. Mixed-breed animals are just as healthy as full-bred animals — and sometimes healthier
Full-bred animals can be very healthy, but it’s a misconception that mixed-breed animals are not healthy. Often, they get sick or don’t look perfectly groomed because they come from puppy mills, the streets, or homes where they were once abused. If they have a skin disease or a respiratory disorder, these are conditions that can be remedied with a quick trip to the vet.
On the other hand, it is less well-known that full-bred animals often have genetic diseases because of the centuries of inbreeding they’ve endured. There’s nothing wrong with these animals, and they can make excellent pets. But these diseases are often difficult to cure and can lead to early death, meaning that many people are against supporting breeders who continue these genetic lines of disease.
5. You’ll save money
Buying a dog, cat, or other animal costs money. In fact, these animals can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Furthermore, when you adopt a pet, most of the initial expenses have already been taken care of. You’ll save on neutering or spaying, and often, the animals will already have their first vaccinations. If you get an older animal, you could even save money on house training.
If you are interested in adopting a pet for your home, talk to your local animal shelter for more information. Remember that millions of animals are looking for a home, and even though you are just one home, you’ll be doing a great service by saving one of these precious creatures.
If you decide to adopt an animal contact Utah Veterinary Hospital today for a checkup!