There will always be plenty of breeders selling purebred puppies, but how many times will you get the chance to change the life of a dog who is nearing the end of his time. I'm talking about adopting a dog. I can't think of a better way to make a difference in a dog's life than to bring him into your family and share your life with him. Here are the top 10 reasons to adopt a dog that I can think of.
If you've recently taken up walking, but can't seem to find anyone who wants to go with you, then you might want to think about adopting a dog. Of course there are many other aspects of owning a dog that need to be taken into consideration before you go through with the adoption. However, dogs make great walking partners and are always very enthusiastic about any type of exercise. Getting a dog might be just the motivation you need to keep up with your exercise routine.
Not all animals shelters are No-Kill shelters. Some dogs are kept up for adoption for a limited amount of time before they are eventually put down. Knowing that there are hundreds upon hundreds of dogs out there who will never find a good home always makes me so sad. If I had the land and funds to care for all the strays I found, I'd be thrilled!
Puppy mills are some of the worst places I've ever seen. Poor little dogs stuck in small areas that smell horrible. These canines rarely have enough room to get any exercise at all and they often become neurotic.
Kids and dogs normally get along very well. Before adopting a dog for your children, you'll want to make sure that the dog you are interested in is able to be around children in the first place. Not all dogs get along with kids, especially those who were antagonized by children in the past. Allowing your kids to pick out a dog and be responsible for its care will teach them the value of providing comfort for something else that is living and not only focusing on themselves.
Dogs are pack animals, so they naturally enjoy one another's company. It might be best if you can find a dog to adopt that is a similar size to your current pup. It's often difficult to judge a dog's temperament when you first meet him though, so this might be tricky. You might wind up with a hyperactive dog that overshadows your meek pooch or vice versus. But, I have known many people who have found wonderful partners for their dogs through adoption of an additional dog.
Living alone can be scary and maybe having a dog to notify you of strangers is what you need to feel safer. Even if the dog you adopt isn't a huge breed dog, it can still be a very effective watch dog. Sometimes small dogs make better watch dogs because they will bark incessantly at something they find strange, especially odd characters lurking about outside.
Cats might be great snugglers, but a dog will follow you anywhere. All of the dog I've had have been very loyal and wanted to be by my side at all times. Some people might find this annoying, but I found it to be very endearing. If you are looking for someone who will hang on your every word, then adopting a dog might be just the thing for you.
Dogs make excellent companions for those living alone or who feel they are constantly alone. Even though they many not answer back, dogs are great listeners. I like talking to my dog, even though I know she doesn't understand everything I'm saying. She keeps me company while I type on the computer or when I spend time outside in the garden. I like knowing she's nearby.
Nursing homes often use docile dogs as therapy pets. Petting a dog has shown to decrease high blood pressure and lessen the amount of stress a person feels. Dogs simply make a person feel good. Their funny faces and odd little quirks make each dog one of a kind.
You just might be saving a dog's life by adopting him. Think about this next time you consider purchasing a puppy from a breeder. Why not visit the local animal shelter first, just in case you find that sweet canine face you connect with and absolutely have to take home to the family.
Do you agree with my top 10 reasons to adopt a dog or can you think of some better ones?
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