Having animals at home is always good especially if you have children. There is a reason why pets such as dogs are a man's best friend; caring for one or two can bring numerous physical and mental health benefits.
While it is considered normal to buy or get dogs as puppies, adopting rescue dogs from a shelter is much better. Here are 6 reasons why:
1.) Save a Life, Get a Friend for Life
There are 2.7 million adoptable shelter pets in the country and one of them could be the rescue dog that's meant for you and your family, according to Human Society. Additionally, most of them get euthanized every year because they become too many in shelters and almost no one is willing to adopt.
2.) Adopting is Cheaper and Easier
Although cute, puppies can be a little tough to handle especially for first timers. They need to be house trained and in the process, your important belongings could get destroyed. When animals are put in shelters, they are usually spayed and vaccinated and although most rescue dogs are adults, it is cheaper and easier to adopt them than buying puppies.
3.) Rescue Dogs are Socialized Dogs
Most shelter pets come from families so they are socialized and familiar with basic training so there is little to no time spent in helping them acclimate to a new home environment.
4.) You Help Put Puppy Mills and Breeders Out of Business
Dogs that come from puppy mills are more than likely sickly due to inbreeding. You have no way of knowing that the puppy you will be buying comes from breeders so the dog's health is uncertain. Mixed breed dogs, especially those coming from shelters, are healthier because a wider gene pool makes them less likely to have genetic problems, Parents reported.
5.) You Set a Great Example to Your Children
A lot of people are turned off by the idea of adopting rescue dogs because of certain misconceptions that shelter pets are cast away because of behavior problems, according to Pet Finder. This is not true as most shelter dogs and cats are given up due to moving, divorce, allergies, not having enough time or money to care for them.
By adopting rescue dogs, you instill in your children important moral lessons, compassion and empathy.
6.) Rescue Dogs are Great Companions
There are many health benefits to owning a pet and there are reasons why dogs are a man's best friend, Help Guide cited. Dogs are great companions that can help ease anxiety and stress relief especially for those with chronic illnesses.
