10 Reasons Why You Should Rescue a Dog From a Shelter
1) Giving another chance at life to a pet that was not very lucky in the past
Rescuing a dog from a shelter is essentially giving them another shot at life. Many of the dogs in shelters haven’t had very much luck in the past, so offering them a new home that they deserve is a great thing to do. Dog’s bring a lot of joy to people so it’s a nice thing to bring some joy into their lives by allowing them to be part of your family.
2) There’s more choice
Another reason why you should rescue a dog from a shelter is that there is more choice. You can find pretty much any breed or mix you want. It would be wrong to think shelters only have mutts and crossed-breed dogs. It’s certainly possible to find dogs of all shapes and sizes. There are so many different dogs, with different personalities. It’s a fantastic opportunity to find the perfect dog that matches your personality and lifestyle!
3) They appreciate having a home
Dogs are fiercely loyal creatures who love to be part of a family. They will definitely appreciate you giving them a second chance at life by allowing them into your home.
4) They are healthier
Since they get their health checked by the rescue shelter on a regular basis before you adopt them, dogs in a home tend to be healthier. Dogs from breeders can sometimes suffer from genetic problems that you may not know about until they are older. Rescue shelters are very serious about getting the dog’s health checked by vets regularly. They are also fully up to date on all their shots and are most of the time already neutered or spayed.
5) They may already be trained and know tricks
As most dogs at a shelter are adults, they may already know basic commands from their previous home or have been taught by the rescue shelter. A dog that is already trained can be quicker to fit into a home as they are usually house and toilet trained. They will often easily adapt to a home where there are other dogs present since they are used to being around other dogs at the shelter.
6) You can give them the love they have always deserved and wanted
These dogs deserve the happiness and love that they will get from you. They will love you more than anything for that and will be loyal to you for the rest of their life.
7) You get to know them before you bring them home
It’s common to spend some time with your chosen dog before bringing them home. This gives you a chance to get to know their quirks and personality traits. It’s also a good opportunity for them to get used to and start bonding with you. You’ll also be able to talk with people from the shelter who know a lot about the dog you have chosen and who will give you valuable advice.
8) It’s cheaper
Purchasing a dog from a dog breeder can be very expensive, costing around £1,900 on average. If you purchase a rescue dog the price is much more affordable. To buy a dog over six months old from Battersea Dogs Home will cost just £155. A puppy under six months old will cost £185. The cost includes a veterinary and behavioural assessment, microchipping, initial vaccinations, a collar, identification tag and lead.
9) You’re doing a good deed
When you adopt a dog from a shelter, you will be helping to support the rescue dogs and homes, as well as helping to spread the word. You’ll be doing your bit to reduce the number of stray dogs. Also, if you have kids it can be a good way to teach them and the people around you a valuable life lesson.
10) You’re finding your best-friend for life!
Adopting a rescue dog means you’ll have a wonderful family member who will love you unconditionally for the rest of their life!