Every year approximately 2.7 Million cats and dogs are euthanized due to the fact that there is simply no more room to house them. They are not sick, aggressive or non-home-able, there are just too many unwanted animals. Despite the valiant efforts of local animal shelters and rescue organizations they are continually flooded with pets.

There are many reasons that so many animals are euthanized ranging from financial, to relocation, to divorce. But the reason does not matter, nor does it help these poor innocent animals find homes. There are so many wonderful reasons to consider adopting versus shopping when you’re thinking about adding a new pet to your family.

Here are some wonderful reasons why you should Adopt vs Shop for your pets:

– It is highly likely that you will bring home a healthy pet when you visit an animal shelter or rescue. They examine and vaccinate your potential pet, not to mention neuter or spay in most cases. Their mission is to save lives and reduce the pet population. When shopping for a pet you can often will come across puppy mill dogs who were breed with profit over welfare in mind. AND the horrid conditions which most puppy mills are run is cruel, unconscionable and inhumane.

– Puppy mills are run with the dollar in mind, not your pet’s welfare. They over breed, allow the dogs to live in filthy conditions, and then ship them across the country to shops around the world. Do you know how traumatized that puppy is by the time he lands in your lap? The behavioral and medical issues that plague pet shop pups are beyond your wildest dreams.

– For those who want a certain breed, luckily there are rescues for virtually every breed imaginable. With a little research you can still save a life by adopting.

Adopt. Don’t Shop! You will be rewarded with many years of loyalty. These pets truly sense that they are being saved and you are the person providing that warm and loving fur-ever home.

photo credits: Love for sale via photopin (license); via photopin (license)