10 Reasons To Adopt A Dog

Oct 2 • 4 minute read

October is Adopt a Dog Month, which was coined in 1981 by the American Humane Association, in response to the growing number of dogs and puppies entering shelters every year. According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. When these abandoned and often abused animals find their way to a shelter, each one needs a furever home. While there are a million and one reasons you SHOULD adopt a dog, we’ve narrowed down the top 10 reasons to adopt a four-legged friend in need.

adopting a dog will save a dog’s life:

The number one reason to adopt a dog is that you will be saving his life. According to the ASPCA, each year, approximately 390,000 shelter dogs are euthanized.

you will have a furever cuddle buddy:
Studies have shown that even small interactions with dogs cause the human brain to produce oxytocin, a hormone often referred to as the “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin increases feelings of relaxation, trust, and empathy while reducing stress and anxiety.

dog adoption is less expensive than buying a dog from a breeder or pet store:

Buying a pet can easily cost $500 to $3,000 or more; adoption costs range from $50 to $200.

you will encourage other people to adopt a dog by sharing your story:

When friends and family learn that you adopted your perfect, four-legged companion, they might feel inspired to do the same.

you are taking a stand against puppy mills:

A puppy mill is a large-scale commercial dog breeding operation where profit is given priority over the well-being of the dogs. According to the ASPCA, mother dogs are bred with very little recovery time between litters and, once the breeding dogs are no longer able to produce puppies, they are often killed. By adopting a dog, you are contributing to the fight against puppy mills.

adopting a dog not only changes their life, it will change your life too:

Spending time with canine companions does wonders for your wellbeing. Recent research shows that owning a dog is good for you physically and emotionally. Dogs make us happier, healthier, and help us cope with a crisis—and that’s backed by science!

a rescue dog will offer you unconditional love for his entire life:

Evidence shows rescue dogs can indeed remember certain aspects of their past lives—because of this, your rescue will have a deeper bond and appreciation for you.

skip the puppy training:

Shelters are full of adult dogs that need a good home. Often they are already house-trained and some can even “sit” or “stay.” You won’t have to deal with the “puppy phase” which means less of that youthful energy such as biting, chewing, clawing, etc. Additionally, you will be able to see their developed personality and won’t have to wait to see what you get.

you help break the cycle of pet overpopulation:

There are not enough homes for all the animals that are born every year. Adopting from a shelter helps weaken the pet overpopulation cycle.

you choose from a great selection of dogs:

Shelters and rescues offer a variety of breeds you won’t find anywhere else. They have specific breeds and the greatest mutts you’ll ever find!

Are you interested in adopting a dog? Here is a brief list of some great rescues and non-profits that help the Houston community:

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