Dogs are highly popular pets, thanks to their unwavering loyalty and companionship. It is therefore not surprising that they are the UK’s favourite pet. If you’re considering getting a dog, then why not adopt?
Adopting a dog not only helps to combat issues caused by irresponsible breeding but it also provides a loving home to dogs who probably haven’t had the best start in life. Here, we take a look at four reasons why adopting a dog is a much better choice than going to a breeder or pet store.
You are saving a life
By taking an animal away from a shelter, you are essentially giving them a second chance at life. Many dogs in these rescue organisations have previously been abused, abandoned, or lived on the streets. By adopting, you show them what a loving home is, possibly for the first time ever.
With shelters getting to full capacity, particularly due to the increase in the cost of living, adoption also allows the staff to take in other animals. This helps to prevent overpopulation and means healthy animals don’t lose their lives.
You will often save money on healthcare
Shelters have an obligation to provide all pups with the necessary healthcare upon arrival. This means you won’t need to spend money on getting your dog spayed, neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated.
Unless they require long-term health management, the only real cost is the price of adoption, which is considerably less than the rates set by breeders. You will also need to provide your rescue with some toys and a large dog bed for when they come home to ensure they feel at ease.
You may find your best friend
With more than a thousand shelters in the UK and countless pets who crave love, there’s a very good chance you’ll find the perfect dog for you. While you may already have an idea as to what breed you are looking for, you could well get a pet you never expected after spending time with them.
It’s very important to keep an open mind when visiting a shelter and choose an animal that warms to you as much as you do them.
You will likely get an older dog
The majority of the dogs in shelters are adults or adolescents as opposed to puppies. This means they will probably already be housetrained, saving you a lot of time and effort when it comes to getting them to go to the toilet in the right place.
In addition to this, they should respond to basic commands and so will be less likely to destroy the furniture in your home. Their personality will also be a lot calmer, requiring less supervision and attention – this obviously depends on the history of the dog.
