Adopting a pet is a fantastic experience for you and your family. It also has countless benefits for animals, people, and the environment. When you adopt a cat or dog, you make room in the shelter for another needy animal. You may also help wildlife by keeping feral dogs from preying on local wild animals.
You're Saving a Life
Millions of cats and dogs end up in shelters yearly, and many are euthanized simply because there isn't enough room. When you adopt a pet from an HSNY shelter, you give them a loving home and save their life. Plus, they may be up-to-date on all their shots and usually spayed or neutered. Pets aren't just good for humans; they're great for their owners, too. Studies have shown they can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They also boost happiness and increase opportunities for exercise. Unfortunately, thousands of unethical breeders exploit animals for profit, making them sick and unhealthy before they're sold to pet stores or through newspaper ads. Adopting a shelter pet means you're not supporting these breeders.
You're Adding to Your Family
A cat or dog can be an excellent addition to your family. Studies have shown that having pets benefits people's health and mental well-being. Dogs also help us connect with our neighbors; a recent study found that people who walk their dogs experience a stronger sense of community. Pets need a lot of attention, and shelters can be an excellent place to find one who will fit in with your lifestyle. The staff at your local shelter can often give you information about the cats' or dogs' personalities, and they can match you with an animal that will be a good fit for you and your home. Many shelters have foster volunteers who care for animals until they are adopted. This can make the transition from shelter to your home much more accessible.
You're Giving a Second Chance
Millions of dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and other pets enter shelters and rescue yearly. Some are victims of cruelty, and others are surrendered by families who can no longer provide them with the care they deserve. Adopting a shelter or rescue helps break the pet overpopulation cycle, ultimately saving lives. It's a great way to give an unwanted animal a new home without supporting unethical breeders who put profits above the welfare of animals. When you adopt, you'll know that your new furry friend has been socialized, housetrained, and has undergone a medical exam. This includes vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchipping, and flea/tick treatment. You'll also get advice to help make your relationship successful. Moreover, the adoption fee is less than you'd pay for a pet at a pet store or through private sales.
You're Helping the BirthMother
Millions of pets end up in shelters annually in the United States for various reasons. Many are rescued from commercial pet breeding facilities, known as puppy mills, where animals are impregnated repeatedly and forced to live in intolerable conditions. By adopting a pet from a shelter, you're helping to end these cruel practices. Many shelters have already spayed or neutered their pet, making bringing your new dog home easier. This is important to help keep unwanted pet populations under control, and it's required in most states. Plus, it's an excellent way to save money on vet bills.
You're Making a Difference
Many shelters and rescues are small, community-based places where staff and volunteers spend lots of time with their pets—learning their likes and dislikes, funny sides, and little quirks. They'll also be familiar with the pets' backgrounds and can provide much information about them. They'll help you match your lifestyle and expectations with dogs that fit well in your home. They'll ask you detailed questions and may schedule a home visit. When you adopt, you're not only giving your new pet a good home, but you're helping to break the cycle of animal overpopulation. Each year, 8 to 12 million cats, dogs, and puppies are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them. By adopting, you can help to stop this tragedy.
