Looking for a new pet is exciting, however, trying to find the perfect addition to add to your family can be difficult. Many first-time pet owners may not even know where to start. It’s important to do plentiful research before getting a new pet. The first thing you should consider is where you will get your pet. Adopting a pet from a shelter is often overlooked. You should analyze the benefits/disadvantages of adopting from a shelter and purchasing from a breeder. Let’s take a look at the statistics provided by the ASPCA:

Many people don’t know the true benefits that come with adopting rather than purchasing from breeders or pet stores. The Oklahoma Humane Society strongly advises those who are looking for pets to adopt, and here is why:

1. Save a life– By adopting, you are saving a life. Over a million dogs and cats are euthanized each year. Shelters frequently reach maximum capacity, causing them to be unable to take in pets. Many pets can be on a euthanization list for many reasons, such as being in the shelter for too long (no one adopts), over capacity, etc. You can save that animal by simply adopting.
2. A great companion– There’s a stigma around shelter animals, assumptions saying they aren’t as intelligent, skilled, or high quality as a pet purchased from a breeder. This has been proven to be false. Shelter pets are no different than a purchased pet; they are just as qualified. They are not in the shelter because they are bad or undesirable, they are just in need of a loving home. The previous owners may have changed their living situation or even dumped the pet. Others are strays found roaming around neighborhoods. Regardless, these pets are not any less qualified than pets purchased from pet stores/breeders.
3. Save money– Getting a new pet can be expensive. From buying supplies to vet bills, it can add up quickly. Fortunately, many rescues, like Central OK Humane Society, will include spay or neuter services, microchip, vaccines, and flea & tick medication with their fees, whereas many breeders won’t include vet services with the fee.
4.  Good cause– Your adoption can help stop unkind and inhumane puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeding facilities who put profit over the welfare of their dogs. There are poor conditions, improper medical care, and dogs kept in cages for a majority of their lives with little interaction. Because the breeder is breeding for quantity rather than quality, puppy mills puppies can also have a higher rate of congenital diseases, such as sight and hearing impairment. These mills make money because people are buying from a pet store or breeder. If we stop shopping and adopt instead, we can help shut these mills down.