I see it all over my Facebook feed, on Instagram, everywhere I turn people are falling into the trap that animal breeders have so cleverly laid. Next time you're playing with that puppy from the pet store whose price tag is more than three months rent, question the integrity of the store you are shopping at.
People are using animals to turn massive profits and people continue to be gullible enough fall for it. Animals, with the exception of special cases, should not be bought and traded like property. Here are seven simple reasons why you should adopt your next furbaby instead of falling into the trap of buying from a sick individual who profits by overbreeding and neglecting their animals.
1. Many animals that enter shelters are euthanized as there is a high volume of animal intake and just not enough people adopting.
When you spend $5,000 on that cute little Husky puppy from Puppies R Us, or whatever your choice in breeder happens to be, you are turning your back on dogs that will soon be euthanized. Not to mention the fact that your new adorable little pup is likely going to start showing an astounding number of health problems due to inbreeding.
2. By adopting you are supporting an organization whose mission is to help animals, not profit from them.
When you adopt you are helping an organization that truly cares about their animals. The money you spend for the adoption fee, or ‘suggested donation’ depending upon the rescue you go through, is going back into the rescue or covers the cost of the required medical attention upon arrival to the shelter. Your money is being used for good, not to pay for some breeder’s mortgage payment.
3. When you buy from a breeder you are supporting someone who is contributing to the population of unwanted animals.
Breeders and puppy mill owners are money hungry. The make an insane amount of money off the of animals that they breed and knowingly contribute to the population of pets that we are already unable to support.
4. Many shelter pets are overlooked if they are older, have special needs, or come from dark pasts. These are some of the best companions you will ever have.
Don’t ignore the pets with a bit of baggage. These are often the animals we can learn the most from.
5. By adopting an animal you are freeing up a spot in a shelter for another animal to be taken in, cared for, and given the correct medical care so that they can be offered a second chance.
Each animal adopted is the opportunity for another animal to be given that same chance. It’s almost as if you’re rescuing two animals at once.
6. As more animals are taken into shelters this keeps strays off the streets and makes for a safer community.
Starving animals on the street can only lead to trouble and the spread of disease.
7. You adopted furry friend will love you unconditionally.
So next time you are hanging out with your friends at the 'Just Puppies' with your friends playing with the $4,000 pooch who you think is just too adorable to handle, think before you drop all your savings. The dogs and puppies there are no less deserving of a loving home but by dropping a significant amount of money on a puppy mill canine you are making yourself part of the problem.
Rescue don't buy. Don't be the problem, be the solution.
