There are many things to consider when deciding to open your home to a dog. Does it matter whether the dog is a pure breed, or would a mutt (combination of two or more breeds) be alright? Is age a factor? There are thousands of amazing dogs available for adoption at local animal shelters. Here are some reasons to consider adoption over purchasing a dog from a breeder.
Loyalty
Most dogs are relinquished by previous owners due to circumstances beyond their control (divorce, death in the family, moving etc.) or because the previous owner didn’t realize what they were getting into; by not researching breed traits, they may have gotten an overly energetic dog when they really wanted a couch potato. When a shelter dog is adopted by a new family, the dog has a second chance to prove itself to be a good pack member. Most shelter dogs are more loyal and loving to their new families because they were “rescued” from doggy jail.
Medical Costs
People often pay between five hundred and five thousand dollars for a puppy from a breeder. The puppy most likely will have their first round of shots done before they go home. A shelter dog will not only have all their vaccinations up to date, but will come spayed or neutered as well, saving time and money at the vet. Most shelters do an initial exam when a dog enters the facility and does their best to make sure the dog is healthy before putting them onto the adoption floor. Adoption costs are a fraction of what you would pay a breeder.
