Adopt a pet and save a life

Each year, around 625,000 dogs and cats are killed annually in our nation's shelters. But it doesn't have to be that way. An estimated 17 million people will add a new pet to their families this year. If more of them would choose to adopt a pet, instead of buying one, we could reduce the number of animals killed in shelters significantly.

 

Reasons to adopt a pet:

• You will save a life.

• If you adopt an adult pet, there's a possibility you can avoid some of the hassles related to house-training and teething, which are associated with puppies and kittens. Of course, if you prefer a puppy or kitten, rescue groups and shelters have plenty of those available as well.

• You'll save money because adoption costs less than buying an animal from a pet shop or breeder.

• Perfectly "perfect" animals of all breeds, shapes, ages and sizes are available at shelters and rescue groups. Just because an animal ends up there doesn't mean there is anything wrong with them. They are just in need of a second chance.