Anyone who knows me knows that I am absolutely obsessed with animals, specifically dogs. Thanks to the National Brittany Rescue and Adoption Network (NBRAN), my family has been able to adopt two amazing dogs, Jackson and Oliver. I've grown up only ever having rescue dogs, and I can promise you when I say that they are the most wonderful of pets. There are so many benefits that come with rescuing a dog, and if you're not yet convinced, take a look at the list below.
1. You'll save a life.
According to the ASPCA, there are roughly 3.9 million dogs that come into shelters each year. Of those 3.9 million, 1.2 million are euthanized each year. When you adopt a dog, you become a lifesaver; you prevent your dog from becoming one of those 1.2 million that would otherwise be euthanized.
2. You'll help fight against puppy mills.
Puppy mills are one of the main reasons that there is an overpopulation of dogs. They're known for being cruel, unsanitary, and unsafe for all the animals that are there. Rescuing a dog means that you help to fight against this horrible system that causes dogs to suffer.
3. It's cheaper.
Purebred puppies are most likely going to be more expensive than a puppy you would adopt from a shelter. Sometimes, your shelter dog will come with vaccinations and already is spayed/neutered, so those are other things you don't have to worry about paying for.
4. You can find the best one for you.
All of the dogs on the NBRAN website have descriptions that include specific details like their age, if they're good with kids and/or other pets, and if they need fencing for the yard. That way, prospective adopters are able to find the best fit for them and their families so they don't get stuck with a dog that doesn't like their children.
5. You'll grow to love them unconditionally.
My first dog, Jack, was so troublesome that my mom had thoughts of taking him back, and Ollie is so mischievous and reckless that sometimes, it's hard to not be mad at him. No dog is perfect, though, and we've learned that the hard way. But no matter how much trouble they get into, even if at the time you don't always like them, you'll always love them.
6. You'll see a transformation.
When we first got my dog, Oliver, he was so skinny that you could see his hip bones and ribs and he was scared of us. Just one month later, he was a healthy weight and was comfortable with us. It's amazing how much of a difference 30 days can make.
7. You'll change their life forever.
The saying on the picture above basically sums up this point. Rescue dogs feel unwanted and unloved when they realize that their old family/owner dumped them in a shelter. When you adopt a dog, you're showing them compassion and love and telling them that they get another chance at a good life. You change their life, and even if you don't realize it, they change yours, too.
