Are you thinking of growing your fur family? Have you considered adopting one instead of going to a breeder?
If you are looking to add a new pup or dog to your family going to a shelter or rescue is a great option. At Muttz with Mannerz we strongly support adoption and we want to share with you the good reasons why.
Here are the 7 Key Reasons to Adopt from a Shelter or Rescue.
- Adult Dogs Are Less Bother.
While shelters do occasionally have puppies available for adoption, adolescent or adult dogs are much more common. When you are adopting an adult dog it means that you don’t have to go through the trials and tribulations of house-training and raising a puppy. You can also avoid the more difficult puppy stages like nipping and chewing. - What You See is What You Get.
Unlike a puppy, an adult dog’s personality and temperament are already well-established. They have also reached their full adult size and their coat has grown in. At this age, you will have a good idea of the dog’s play style, energy level, health, and how they interact with humans and other dogs so you can determine if they are a good fit for your family and lifestyle. - You’ll Get a Great Dog.
Animal shelters and rescue groups are usually filled with happy, healthy pets just waiting for someone to take them home. Most rescue dogs end up there because of human problems. Lifestyles changes happen such as moves, financial stress, allergies, marital breakups, or the owner passing away which are not the dog’s fault but unfortunately have an impact on their living situation. Most are already house-trained and used to living with families – they just need some time to adjust and get comfortable.
- Find an Ideal Match for Your Family.
All reputable humane societies and SPCAs conduct temperament tests on the dogs to ensure they are safe to be adopted out, and many also have programs to match up adopters with dogs whose personalities will best fit their lifestyles and preferences. Rescue groups have foster homes, where the dog is living with them for a period of time allowing them to understand the dog’s personality so they can share with potential adopters. - Good Value for your Money.
The cost of adopting a pet at an animal shelter or rescue is a fraction of what you’d pay to buy from a breeder or pet store. It’s also often less expensive than getting a dog for free because the adoption fee usually includes spay/neuter surgery, a complete veterinary check-up, vaccinations, and a microchip ID. These services alone will cost at least $500 or more if you had to pay for them yourself. - It is a Rewarding Experience.
When you adopt a dog there is the satisfaction and reward of knowing you have saved a dog’s life plus provided them with a good home. There is also the benefit of knowing you have saved more than a dog’s life as you’ve freed up space to welcome another rescue into the shelter. The joy you bring to the dog’s life is minimal compared to the joy they will give you with their unconditional love and companionship. - Make a Positive Difference.
The world has more dogs than homes for them. By adopting from a shelter you are helping, rather than contributing, to the pet overpopulation problem. You also are helping fight puppy mills and saving a dog’s life.
Those of you that have adopted already know the benefits – but to those future dog owners considering adoption, we hope that we have provided you with some of the great reasons to adopt don’t shop!
Here at Muttz with Mannerz, we encourage you to consider adoption first when planning the next addition to your fur family. If we can be of any assistance please contact us at info@muttzwithmannerz.com or visit our website at www.muttzwithmannerz.com.
Tune into our podcast next month for more on adoption with Corey McCusker, Canine Coach and Diane Purser, Canine Education.