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other hand, many people prefer mixed breed animals in that often they have better health
and calmer temperaments.
Please think carefully before insisting on a puppy. Adult dogs are easier to train than
puppies (and are usually house-trained). But if you really would like to raise a puppy,
there are many available in the local shelters and rescue groups.
THE REWARDS OF HELPING A DOG IN NEED
1. SAVE A LIFE
Every year between 4 and 8 million animals are euthanized in animal shelters across the
United States. Many of these animals are strays; but an astounding number are animals
given up or abandoned by people who no longer want them. You can save one of these
lives, and give love to a dog who has been sadly neglected.
2. LOYALTY, LOYALTY, LOYALTY!
Chances are good that by adopting a dog, you have rescued a wonderful, loving canine
from an untimely, unfortunate and unwarranted death. They can sense that he or she
was saved and will be eternally loyal to his or her new “forever” family.
3. EASE OF GUARDIANSHIP
Adult and senior dogs are mellow, calm and ready for a relaxing new home. They are
over the puppy chewing and destruction stage and usually come with basic training.
Most are happiest sitting at your feet or curled up in their bed next to yours.
4. NO HUGE LIFESTYLE CHANGE
You don't need to worry about puppy proofing your house and there are no midnight
feeding requirements. Most adopted, older dogs do not demand the time and attention
that a puppy does on your busy lifestyle. They are satisfied with casual walks and
cuddling. Many snooze the day away inside while you are busy at work and are waiting
calmly at the door for you when you return home.
5. STRESS RELIEVER
Life today can be very hectic. Studies have shown that animal guardianship can
decrease blood pressure levels and reduce stress. Dogs enjoy leisurely walks, which
encourage you to exercise for even a few minutes on your busiest days.
6. NO SURPRISES
Many shelter dogs are full-grown and their personalities are completely developed.
When you meet with a dog, you will instantly know what kind of wonderful, loving canine
he or she is and will always be.
7. A MORE ECONOMICAL ALTERNATIVE
Rescued dogs are a bargain. Pet stores will charge you hundreds of dollars for
(perhaps) a purebred dog whose history is unknown. Dogs in shelters are evaluated for
health and behavior problems, and are given all their shots, wormed, and in most cases,
spayed or neutered. The adoption fee varies from $35 to $200 and almost always
include all medical treatment (vaccines, spay/neuter, etc.). Additionally, dogs kept in
"foster homes" (temporary homes while a permanent home is sought) are often given
additional training and the foster parent can tell you all about the dog’s character,
preferences, and other very useful information.
and calmer temperaments.
Please think carefully before insisting on a puppy. Adult dogs are easier to train than
puppies (and are usually house-trained). But if you really would like to raise a puppy,
there are many available in the local shelters and rescue groups.
THE REWARDS OF HELPING A DOG IN NEED
1. SAVE A LIFE
Every year between 4 and 8 million animals are euthanized in animal shelters across the
United States. Many of these animals are strays; but an astounding number are animals
given up or abandoned by people who no longer want them. You can save one of these
lives, and give love to a dog who has been sadly neglected.
2. LOYALTY, LOYALTY, LOYALTY!
Chances are good that by adopting a dog, you have rescued a wonderful, loving canine
from an untimely, unfortunate and unwarranted death. They can sense that he or she
was saved and will be eternally loyal to his or her new “forever” family.
3. EASE OF GUARDIANSHIP
Adult and senior dogs are mellow, calm and ready for a relaxing new home. They are
over the puppy chewing and destruction stage and usually come with basic training.
Most are happiest sitting at your feet or curled up in their bed next to yours.
4. NO HUGE LIFESTYLE CHANGE
You don't need to worry about puppy proofing your house and there are no midnight
feeding requirements. Most adopted, older dogs do not demand the time and attention
that a puppy does on your busy lifestyle. They are satisfied with casual walks and
cuddling. Many snooze the day away inside while you are busy at work and are waiting
calmly at the door for you when you return home.
5. STRESS RELIEVER
Life today can be very hectic. Studies have shown that animal guardianship can
decrease blood pressure levels and reduce stress. Dogs enjoy leisurely walks, which
encourage you to exercise for even a few minutes on your busiest days.
6. NO SURPRISES
Many shelter dogs are full-grown and their personalities are completely developed.
When you meet with a dog, you will instantly know what kind of wonderful, loving canine
he or she is and will always be.
7. A MORE ECONOMICAL ALTERNATIVE
Rescued dogs are a bargain. Pet stores will charge you hundreds of dollars for
(perhaps) a purebred dog whose history is unknown. Dogs in shelters are evaluated for
health and behavior problems, and are given all their shots, wormed, and in most cases,
spayed or neutered. The adoption fee varies from $35 to $200 and almost always
include all medical treatment (vaccines, spay/neuter, etc.). Additionally, dogs kept in
"foster homes" (temporary homes while a permanent home is sought) are often given
additional training and the foster parent can tell you all about the dog’s character,
preferences, and other very useful information.
| WHY ADOPT |
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