If you’re looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home, think about adopting rather than shopping. One of my friends recently texted me, “I can’t meet up tomorrow; I brought home another dog and we need to visit the vet.” After visiting a high-kill shelter, she and her husband couldn’t resist the charm of a little pup that was scheduled for euthanasia the following day. Despite being told the dog had health issues (which turned out to be false), they decided to give him a chance at life. Now, he’s a lively and loving addition to their family.
Stories like this are unfortunately all too common. If you’re in the market for a pet, adopting can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. There are countless animals waiting for homes, often against overwhelming odds. The ASPCA reports that about 6.8 million companion animals enter shelters each year, including approximately 3.3 million dogs and 3.2 million cats. Pets are relinquished for various reasons, including financial constraints and changes in housing, but the reality is that many of them face dire consequences as a result.
The American Pet Products Association revealed that around 80 percent of households in the U.S. have a pet, with many acquiring them through personal connections. While some opt for breeders—who can be a valid choice if you’re seeking a specific breed—many pets are obtained through less humane means. Pet stores frequently source animals from puppy mills, which are notorious for their inhumane practices. These mills often prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals, leading to neglect and mistreatment.
Currently, only 23 percent of dogs and 31 percent of cats are adopted from shelters or humane organizations. This statistic is disheartening, especially when so many loving pets are in need of homes. Just in my area, there are over 2000 dogs available for adoption within a 25-mile radius. Imagine the number of lives that could be saved if more people chose to adopt!
It’s staggering to think that 1.8 million shelter animals are euthanized each year. While some may have health or behavioral issues, the vast majority are simply victims of circumstance and lack of resources at shelters. This situation is unacceptable and calls for action.
If you’re set on adding a pet to your family, please consider adoption. There are numerous options available, whether you prefer a senior dog that’s already trained or a young pup to grow with your family. You can filter your search by size, age, or breed to find the perfect match.
If adopting isn’t an option for you at the moment, consider supporting your local animal shelter through donations, volunteering, or fostering animals until they find their forever homes. These pets, waiting patiently in kennels, deserve love and care just as much as any expensive purebred.
In summary, if you’re looking for a furry companion, please opt to adopt instead of shop. Not only will you save a life, but you’ll also make room for another pet that deserves a chance at happiness.
For more information on home insemination and family planning, check out our other blog posts, like this one on home insemination kit. Additionally, if you’re looking for a reliable resource on fertility, visit this excellent guide from ACOG. Lastly, you can find a great artificial insemination kit to help you on your journey.