There are many benefits to adopting a puppy so if you’re thinking of bringing a new furry family member home, consider adopting from a shelter rather than purchasing from a breeder.
Here are just a few reasons why adopting through rescue could be a perfect solution for you.
1. You’re giving them a fur-ever home
Sadly, over 44,000 healthy dogs, along with thousands of cats, face euthanasia in pounds and shelters throughout Australia annually. Whether they’re because of a change in lifestyle, financial constraints or reasons attributed to the current housing crisis, it’s worth remembering that often it’s not the ‘fault’ of the animal itself.
Adopting saves a life and ensures these puppies and dogs have a well-deserved second chance to find happiness in a loving home.
2. Adoption saves lives.
Not only are adoption fees lower than the price of buying a puppy from a breeder, but the money you pay helps save lives. The rescue uses money from adoptions to pay for food, medical expenses, facilities, and more, which means they can help more pets their fur-ever homes.
3. They may have already received training
Puppies require a lot of training and attention. They don’t come toilet trained, they chew things incessantly, and haven’t yet learned good social etiquette around humans. Basically, they need constant supervision for the first few months.
Thanks to the efforts of the shelter carers, a rescue pup or dog may already have a head start with socialisation and training. They’ll have a good understanding of basic manners and are ready to continue their training at home with you.
If you’re not fully convinced that a young puppy is the right match for you, you should consider adopting an adult dog. Older pets have often graduated from behaviour training programs like Puppy School, know what it’s like to live with humans, and generally settle into new homes faster.
4. They’ve had a thorough health check
Many dogs from reputable rescues have undergone a comprehensive vet check and have been desexed before they’re put up for adoption. All dogs from rescues are microchipped, treated for internal and external parasites, and have had their initial vaccinations.
5. You can find a pet that matches your personality
When bringing home a young puppy, you often will have no indication of what their personality is like. Especially for those who have small children, you want to be assured of your new pet’s temperament before you welcome them into your family. Dogs in rescues may have already spent a lot of time with people. The rescue will know their personalities well and will be able to match you with a dog that best suits your family.
Don’t discount shelters and rescue groups if you have your heart set on a particular breed; there are rescue organisations that specialise in rehoming purebred puppies.
These benefits are just some of the many reasons to adopt a puppy instead of buying one. If you want to find out more about how you can support your local animal shelter and bring home a puppy of your own, have a chat with our friendly team members at your Petbarn store today!