I know I'm not the only that's seen those commercials on TV that display animals with sad eyes behind the bars of animal cages. And I know I'm not the one that changes the channel because my heart could never bare getting through the whole thing. Unfortunately, we miss the underlying and very important message. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 7.6 MILLION animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year.
Overpopulation has been a rampant problem and only getting worse by the day. Animal breeders have not only taken the focus from animal shelters and humane societies but have also contributed to this problem, immensely. 2.7 million shelter animals are euthanized because of the lack of adoptions and simply no space or funds. It's a harsh reality that so many fur babies face every day so here's 5 reasons why you should adopt!
1. You're saving a life
Many animals come to shelters as strays or rescues. In their short lives, they go through more than we can ever imagine. These shelters help give them a temporary home and their first glimpse of love and protection but the job isn't done there. Adopting a pet is much more than bringing home an animal, it's about adding another member to the family and providing a safe haven. It takes a special person to rescue an animal that's gone through a lot in their life. I know if I could, I would rescue every last one.
2. You don't choose them, they choose you
This past December I was volunteering at the New Nodaway Humane Society in Maryville, Missouri when I came across a little white kitten with a few tan spots and I fell in love. I didn't know it but she would become my best friend. Somehow the power of these animals are bigger than we can understand. You may find yourself looking for a new addition, planning to change a fur baby's life but I promise, they will change yours first.
3. Adoption fees are a necessity
I know it sounds ridiculous to have to PAY to save an animal but trust me, it's a necessity! I've heard of too many "Free to a good home" cases gone bad. Adopting the right way through shelters ensures that your new pet is up to date on shots and is spayed or neutered. Paying an adoption fee isn't about the money, but when a person or family is serious about adopting, they'll be happy to comply. This is a great way to know an animal really is going to a good home.
4. Animal breeders and puppy mills need to stop
Although there are honest dog breeders, the problem isn't with their business, it's about the millions of other dogs and cats already waiting for a forever home. A lot of people see these pictures of new purebred puppies and are willing to drop hundreds of dollars just for that luxury. Places like Petland have cute puppies, I'll give them that, but a lot of them have grim futures. Tabitha Bertram, a friend of mine and former employee at the Great Plains SPCA Independence campus, said "Honestly, if I had to decide on if my fur babies were going to Petland or to a shelter, I'd pick the shelter. I can't even tell you how many of those pretty pooches end up dumped off at the shelter because that family was never prepared for a dog." It's a never-ending cycle that needs to be broken. There's no telling how many breeders and mills are out there with greed fueled agendas that use these puppies for profit.
5. The feeling of knowing you changed a life is incredible
I can't stress this enough, if you ever get the chance to adopt an animal, please do. Buying pets from big name pet stores isn't always bad because every animal deserves a loving home but take the time to look at your options and see if a shelter cat or dog is a good fit for you. Adopting my kitten was the best choice I've ever made. It's crazy how much animals can change depending on their surroundings. Tabitha explains "I've seen SO many animals come into the shelter beaten, neglected, afraid and angry at humans. It's hard seeing someone not trust you. But seeing an animal transform from the wild, scared creature to a loving, sweet, good natured being is so worth it." There's so many ways you can help these kinds of organizations that speak for those who can't. Whether it's adopting instead of shopping, donating money or even donating your time to volunteering at a shelter makes a difference. You can visit www.aspca.org for more information on how you can contribute or you can look into your local shelters or humane societies to help locally!
