Shelter Dog Day 18 | Why Adopt a Shelter Dog

Before Molly, every dog I ever owned was pure bred. Harper Lee had papers and everything. But now that I have Molly, now that I have my Hinz 57 pup whose lineage is unknown, I don’t know that I’d go back. It’s not that Harper wasn’t a good dog, because she totally was, smart and loyal, kind and sweet. But my eyes are open to the overwhelming need of homeless animals out there, and rescuing Molly was the very best thing for my family right now.

Here are reasons why you should adopt a shelter dog (or a rescue, ASPCA, or any animal welfare group, for that matter):

• There are millions of homeless pets in the world. MILLIONS. And many of those pets are euthanized just because there aren’t the facilities or funds to care for them in shelter spaces. Do you hear that? Millions of animals who would make good, loving pets are killed just because there isn’t money to pay for their care.
• It’s cheaper. Animals from the breeder can cost into the thousands of dollars, but shelter adoption fees are cheap by comparison. Plus, if you adopt an adult dog or an older puppy they’ve often already had all their shots and are spayed or neutered, which is at no cost to you.
• Shelter dogs are healthy dogs. When dogs are rescued or surrendered, they’re given thorough exams, heartworm preventative, updated shots (if needed), and any medication that might be needed. If a dog does have medical needs, they’re often addressed at the shelter before adoption. Need an example? Molly had whipworms and was under treatment with her foster family. I was given detailed instructions when I adopted her, and now she’s worm free and healthy.
• By adopting, you’re not supporting puppy mills or unsafe breeding conditions. Sometimes dogs, like those often sold in pet stores, are bred to make their owners money. But puppy mill dogs are treated inhumanely, living in small wire cages until they are sold. They’re often more susceptible to genetic disease and illness.
• You can feel good about your adoption. By adopting Molly, I saved more than just her. Because she has a good home, Pet Helpers and the foster family are able to take in and care for more dogs who need homes. Since bringing Molly home October 1, the foster family placed one dog and is currently caring for 7 puppies before they’re old enough to be adopted. That’s nine dogs who have found homes or are that much closer to their forever homes.
• There’s no love like a pound puppy. Really. It’s like Molly realizes what her alternative is, and she’s so happy to have a warm bed, plenty of treats, and lots of love.