Adopting a pet is just like adopting a baby; you become their parent and take responsibility for them.

1. There are a lot of pets that need homes.

If people don't adopt these poor animals, they get euthanized. Shelters will only hold a dog or cat for about two weeks. If no comes to adopt the cat or dog, or a rescue center doesn't pick them up, they face death.

2. They make the best companions!

Our daughter dog, Haley, has been with us for almost three years and she has the sweetest personality of any dog I have ever met. She is so concerned any time her family gets hurt.

3. Bad days can be turned into good ones.

I can be having a horrible day, or not feeling my best, and Haley will come comfort me. My boyfriend had to get a tooth pulled and when we returned home, Haley greeted him at the door and stayed by his side all night. She was concerned about her daddy.

4. It's a very rewarding experience.

When Haley first came to us she had massive separation anxiety. She had been bounced around from a few foster homes and wasn't sure if she would stay with us permanently. After about six months of shredding the furniture and working her frustration out on whatever she could chew on, she finally started to relax. Even her veterinarian said that there was a big difference in her demeanor. To quote my boyfriend, "Haley needed someone who would not give up on her."

5. They become a member of the family.

Haley has found her way into a loving home with us. She isn't just our pet, she is a member of the family. We don't view her as a dog. She is like a daughter to us, fur and all, even when it's all over the furniture!

6. Heartwarming moments.

Some of the most heartwarming moments happen when Haley is around. She loves playing and some of the stunts she pulls just make me laugh. A week or so ago she was rolling around on the couch and she rolled right off into the floor, after it happened she got up and gave that "I meant to do that" look. Such a silly girl!

7. From a rescue to a guardian.

Haley was rescued from a bad situation in Tennessee. Now that she has become a part of our family she looks out for us, including our three-year-old son. She is very protective of him and is his favorite playmate because they can run and play all day. She loves chasing him around the house.

8. They open your heart.

For Haley, this has been a tale of who rescued who. She is a big part of our family and will remain as such forever. Haley wormed her way into my heart after I lost a pet that was very dear to me. I had sworn to never get close to a pet again but she definitely changed that for me!

How could you not love a face like this!