I know what you're thinking... and yes, the title of this article is in fact sarcastic, but the topic at hand is a serious one given 3.9 million dogs enter animal shelters every year and over 30 percent of those animals' lives are ended simply because they were not adopted or returned to their rightful owner. Did you know that about 2 in 5 of all households in the U.S. have a dog?, 29 percent of which are rescued. So, with that said, let's bust the myths and excuses people make for NOT rescuing pups!
1. They'll never be nice.
(Above: Dudley)
Dog's personalities and over-all demeanor are dependent on a variety of factors, and although abuse and neglect certainly can lead to an a "not so nice" pup, that is not to say that, as their owner(s), you can't heal them. With a lot of love and a little time, any animal can become a sweet joy and light in your life, I would know. When my family rescued Dudley only 3 years ago he was extremely timid and fearful due to severe abuse and neglect. After working with him and giving him time to adapt to his new life he became much more social and open to belly rubs. Not only did his physical scars heal, but his emotional ones did too.
2. They're not even cute.
(Above: Watson)
By the end of this article you will surely set the notion aside that rescue mutts aren't attractive and playful animals. "Cuteness" is perceived differently by everyone, but C'MON, look at that face!
3. They'll probably be aggressive and mean.
(Above: Nyla & Eddie)
Regardless of an animal's history or breed, they can all discover peace thanks to a loving family. This brother and sister duo never ceases to amaze me with their compassion and love for attention. They're favorite place to sit is right on your lap!
4. They won't get along with kids.
(Above: Haley)
While some breeds are known for being less social and welcoming to younger humans, in general, dogs don't discriminate as long as they receive a nice pet and treat every once in a while. Use this #throwback as proof.
5. You can't trust them.
(Above: Ozzie)
The only thing you might want to watch out for with a larger rescue is the meat sitting out on the counter!
6. They're a lot of work.
(Above: Cornelia)
I won't try to convince you that pets aren't a lot of work, because they do require plenty of time, love and attention from their humans, and rescue dogs are no exception. Some even come with their own share of personal issues that require more responsibility. What I will tell you is that your time WILL be worthwhile and while you aren't paid in a monetary value for your duty as "puppy parent", you surely will be paid in cuddles and kisses!
7. They definitely won't interact well with other pets.
(Above: Boji & Maggie - rest in peace sweet kitty)
I've watched countless rescue dogs play with their animal counterparts, from cats to bunnies to goats. They're honestly just happy to have a safe place to call home, even if that means sharing your love with another furry friend.
8. They won't ever be "normal".
(Above: Charlie)
I can't say that after you rescue a dog that he/she will absolutely become normal so-to-speak, because it will be better. Rescues are appreciative of the love they receive and their unique quirks are just an added bonus. Their individual looks make them one-of-a-kind and we know in our hearts that they simply can't be replaced.
9. It's too difficult to adopt a rescue mutt, there isn't a humane society or rescue center anywhere near me!
(Above: Sophie)
This is absolutely untrue. At the end of this article you can find a list of reliable resources. We rescued our pup from a website called Happy Tails Rescue, which places homeless and abandoned animals in temporary foster homes until their perfect "forever home" is found. Use the internet as a resource to match a rescue with your home's activity level and needs.
10. You don't know the health history of the animal you're getting.
(Above: Cali)
While this is initially true, there are simple and rather low-cost methods of testing that your local veterinarian can perform to ensure that your new pet is healthy and has everything it needs to grow.
11. It's super expensive.
(Above: Izzy)
While each individual's adoption process can vary greatly, in general the cost to adopt from a rescue agency will include "fixing", or spaying/neutering the animal, inserting a microchip as well as ensuring the animal has received its basic intake vaccinations, such as rabies, parvo and kennel cough.
And there you have it, the top 11 reasons why you definitely, most certainly and honestly shouldn't EVER even consider, for one second, adopting a "second-hand", "troubled", or "unwanted" pup ;) In the end I think the real question is... who's rescuing who?
Please use the following resources to learn more about rescue dogs and reliable shelters and agencies that make this process run so smoothly for millions of pet owners, but always remember to first check-out your local animal shelter!
Minnesota Area:
Happy Tails Rescue + Last Hope + Secondhand Hounds + Ruff Start Rescue
National Agencies:
Animal Humane Society + Adopt a Pet + Pet Harbor
Information About Dog Adoption:
American Humane Association - Adoption Info + The Shelter Pet Project - Q&A
