When I moved out of my house to go to college, I never expected to miss having pets around so much. I'd only ever had dogs (and hermit crabs that died within a month) and missed the joy they brought into my life every day. Now that I'm a junior, with my own apartment and roommates and a better understanding of what it's like to take care of myself (kinda) I thought it was the right time to look into adopting a pet. I had always wanted a cat, and the fact that they basically take care of themselves put the cherry on top.
I knew I wanted to adopt a cat from the Whatcom Humane Society. I can't stress the importance of adopting from a shelter, but I'm certainly going to try. I adopted a four year old cat, who I named Marceline, a few weeks ago. She's timid, like many shelter animals, but she is already filling a hole in my life I never knew was empty. Shelter animals need love. If you're looking to adopt, you might be just what the animals need.
1. It's cheaper to adopt a pet.
This isn't the most important reason to adopt from a shelter, but it's definitely one to consider. Think about how much you could save when adopting from a shelter: all that extra money could go towards pet food, toys, blankets, etc. Depending on the shelter, the first vet visit can be free as well.2. Your furniture, among other things, might thank you.
Shelter animals are usually somewhat trained. So you won't have to worry quite as much about your furniture, carpet, and valuables.
3. You're saving a life.
There are still so many animals being euthanized because there aren't enough people adopting. If more people adopted instead of bought, less animals would have to be killed. And speaking from experience, there is no feeling in the world like knowing you saved an innocent life.
4. You won't be supporting unethical breeding.
5. There's a variety of pets to choose from.
Unfortunately, shelters get new pets every day. From small animals like guinea pigs and rabbits to cats and dogs, there are so many to choose from. And if you don't find one right away, you can come back and see the new pets.
6. They'll do more for you than you'll ever do for them.
There hasn't been a moment where I've been in class or studying at the library that I haven't been thinking about Marceline. She's brought something into my life I never knew I needed. Even though I saved her, she has saved me even more.
So do a favor for yourself and for an animal who would love a home and adopt from your local humane society or shelter.
